Bernalillo County has appointed Zachary Lardy as its new fire chief following a nationwide search that drew 28 candidates from across the country, county officials announced Friday.
Lardy, who has served 19 years with Bernalillo County Fire Rescue, including five years as deputy chief, will lead more than 300 personnel across 14 districts, according to a county news release.
The appointment comes as Fire Rescue Chief Greg Perez concludes his tenure with the department. Under Perez’s leadership, the department grew to more than 300 members, added two new fire stations and opened the Public Safety Training Academy.
“Chief Perez’s dedication has left a lasting mark on Bernalillo County,” County Manager Cindy Chavez said in the release. “His leadership carried our community through times of challenge and growth, and we extend our deepest gratitude for his dedicated service.”
The county conducted a rigorous selection process after Perez announced his retirement earlier this year. Applications came from candidates ranging from Hawaii to Florida, with additional outreach concentrated in New Mexico, Texas and surrounding states, according to the release.
Ten applicants were selected for first-round interviews conducted by a six-person panel that included county officials, union representatives and area fire chiefs. Three finalists advanced to a two-day assessment center that tested leadership skills, problem-solving and communication abilities.
“Deputy Chief Lardy’s knowledge, dedication and his vision for the future makes him the right choice to lead the department into the future,” Chavez said.
Lardy will officially be introduced to the Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday.