The De Soto Fire Department has a new chief.
Tony Ochoa, who has military, police and firefighter experience, was hired for the job, replacing James Maupin who resigned on March 21 after 36 years with the department and nearly five years as chief.
City Manager Todd Melkus said Ochoa began his new job on Sept. 5 and will be paid a $60,000 annual salary.
Maupin was earning $58,183 a year when he left, Melkus added.
“(Ochoa has) already been making himself familiar with the staff and is really excited to get started,” Melkus said. “I’m looking forward to working with him and seeing how he moves the department forward.”
Ochoa, 53, Arnold had worked the past two years as a firefighter at the Cedar Hill Fire Protection District.
“My last day at Cedar Hill was (Aug. 27),” he said.
Ochoa said he joined the Air Force when he was 19 as a firefighter and retired as assistant chief, with the rank of master sergeant (E-7). After retiring from the military, the south St. Louis County native began a law enforcement career, working three years as a St. Louis Police officer and seven years with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. He also was a school resource officer for the Northwest R-1 School District for about three years.
He said someone told him about the fire chief position at De Soto and suggested he apply.
Melkus said Ochoa was chosen from among approximately 35 applicants for the job.
Ochoa said since his hire was announced, everyone has greeted him with open arms.
“I’m coming in with a fresh, open mind,” Ochoa said.
Since Maupin’s retirement, De Soto Fire Capt. Mike Zebas had been the interim chief.
Ochoa said the department’s firefighters stepped up their game to fill in.
He said he’s been talking with some of the firefighters to see what the department needs to move forward and already knows he wants to get firefighters better rescue tools.
Ochoa said the current tools are made by a company no longer in business.
He said he also would like to order a new brush truck and a new couch and recliners.
Ochoa said he’s looking forward to making the department better.
“It will be a challenge, but it will be fun,” Ochoa said.
The department, which covers the area within the city limits, has six full-time firefighters.
Cedar Hill Fire Protection District is currently hiring a full-time firefighter to replace Ochoa.