Deputy Chief Garrett Huff has been tapped as the new fire chief for Santa Barbara County, County Executive Officer Mona Miyasato said Friday, and the board of supervisors is expected to ratify the appointment on Nov. 18.

Huff's first day will be Dec. 8, and he will assume the duties from Chief Mark Hartwig, who is retiring on Dec. 7 after six years.

Huff began his career in firefighting in 1999, and came to the County of Santa Barbara in 2005. Over the past 20 years with the County, he has worked his way up the ranks from firefighter/paramedic on an engine to deputy fire chief.

As deputy chief he oversees the county’s emergency medical services and the Regional Fire Communications Center. In addition, he has served on the Incident Management Team for numerous fires, the Montecito Debris

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