SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Chief John “Chief Mac” McNamara has joined the Lake Valley Fire Protection District (LVFPD), bringing more than 30 years of fire service to the position. He began his career as a seasonal firefighter with CAL FIRE in 1995 before spending over 26 years with the Reno Fire Department, where he ultimately served as the Division Chief of Emergency Operations.
Chief Mac started in the new position last week and is replacing the retiring Chad Stevens, whose last day will be December 19.
In Reno, McNamara oversaw daily operations for a 313-member department responding to more than 50,000 calls annually across 14 stations. His responsibilities included administration, budgeting, personnel management, and emergency response. He also served as the City of Reno’s Assistant Emergency Manager, balancing immediate operational needs with long-term planning and interagency coordination – experience that continues to shape his leadership approach. He is widely recognized for his steady leadership, operational expertise, strong labor–management relationships, and commitment to firefighter wellness and community service.
Regionally, he has been deeply involved in collaborative fire service efforts. As a past Nevada Vice President of the Lake Tahoe Regional Fire Chiefs Association, he gained valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities facing Basin-area agencies. This regional perspective, combined with his history of building productive partnerships, positions him to advance Lake Valley’s mission and organizational strength.
Chief McNamara holds a Bachelor of Science in Recreation with an emphasis in Parks and Natural Resource Management from California State University, Chico, and maintains a broad range of professional certifications and extensive wildland qualifications.
Chief McNamara said he is honored to join LVFPD and is committed to strengthening operational readiness and serving the Lake Tahoe community with integrity and excellence.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead the Lake Valley Fire Protection District and to serve the Lake Tahoe community,” said Chief Mac. “My career has truly come full circle. My quest to become a firefighter began when I was 13 in the Tahoe City Fire Station, where my dad volunteered, and finishing my career in the Tahoe Basin is something I’ve always dreamed of. I’m deeply committed to supporting our firefighters, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional service to the residents and visitors who rely on us.”