News Articles

To: All AFCA Members: 

As many of you know, recent and drastic budget cuts mandated by the Governor’s Office have left the State Fire Marshal’s office without staff or logistical resources to continue delivering training and certification programs, conduct NFIRS data management and fire investigation support, or manage state fire resources during major statewide mutual aid incidents.

Additional changes are continuing as a result of these unfortunate events

Effective Immediately, Bob Barger is stepping down as Director of the Department of Fire, Building and Life Safety (DFBLS). Bob will assume the position of State Fire Marshal which has been vacated as a result of Phil Mele’s recent retirement. The new Director of DFBLS is Gene Palma, who was previously with the Arizona Department of Weights and Measures.

In addition, State Fire Training Director Paul Wobosel will be resigning from his position effective February 26, 2010.  Click  here to read Paul's resignation letter.

The Arizona Fire Service is greatly indebted to the tireless and dedicated efforts demonstrated by both Bob and Paul, as they have tried valiantly to build a credible and professional state training and public safety delivery system for the benefit of all Arizona citizens and firefighters. I hope you join the AFCA Executive Board in wishing them both well in their new endeavors.