Lake Valley Fire selects Brad Zlendick as its new fire chief

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The Lake Valley Fire Protection District didn't have to search far for its new chief to replace the retiring Tim Alameda. Brad Zlendick, who has been in the interim chief role since March 18, is now officially the LVFPD fire chief.

Prior to taking on the interim role, Chief Zlendick has spent his 32-year fire service career working through the ranks at Lake Valley, starting with volunteer firefighter. He then held the positions of engineer, captain, fire marshall and battalion chief. He holds numerous certifications, was awarded a Medal of Valor for his actions on a recent fire, and was instrumental in the Fire Adapted Community initiative. He has represented the Lake Valley District at county, state and federal levels, and has built an impressive network among fire professionals.

Zlendick was born and raised in South Lake Tahoe and Meyers. He graduated from South Tahoe High in 1988, is a graduate of the University of Nevada’s public administration program and has an A.A. in Fire Science. He will have his B.S. in Fire Administration and Investigations this fall. He lives in the district, is married with two school-aged children.

As a lifelong local resident, he is familiar with the Lake Tahoe and Meyers community, residents, and business owners and their needs.

Zlendick was chosen from applicants in the hiring and interviewing process, which began more than two months ago. LVFPD conducted a lengthy hiring process that included an initial screen, live interviews with professional fire representatives, community/business leaders, and a representative from local Fire 4409. Three final candidates were interviewed by the Board of Directors, and a unanimous decision was made to select current Interim Fire Chief Zlendick to fill the role.

According to Bob Bettencourt, chairperson of the LVFPD Board of Directors, Zlendick stood out among the candidates as a great fit for the fire department and the local community.

“Brad’s experience in all aspects of Fire Service, his administrative strengths, and his passion for service will make him a great leader for our Fire Department personnel," said Bettencourt. "Public agencies today face numerous challenges both operationally and financially, and Brad brings an impressive background and has the experience and drive to lead our district during these challenging times. He is an excellent leader and communicator whose passion and integrity will engage our staff and the local community in providing the high quality of emergency services required to protect our community and residents.”