Paso Robles Fire Chief Jonathan Stornetta retiring

October 16, 2026

Chief Jonathan Stornetta (right) with Congressman Jimmy Panetta at the opening of the public Safety Training Center

By KAREN VELIE

After more than 25 years serving Paso Robles, Fire Chief Jonathan Stornetta announced his plan to retire on Dec. 18.

Chief Stornetta led the department through a period of significant growth. With community support through Measure J-20, under Chief Stornetta the department nearly doubled its staff, opened Fire Station 3 and the adjacent Public Safety Training Center, and invested in training and equipment to better serve a growing community.

“Serving as fire chief has been the greatest privilege of my career,” Chief Stornetta said. “I am incredibly proud of our staff. Their professionalism, compassion, and commitment to helping others make this department exceptional.”

The city will conduct an open recruitment for the next fire chief, with Deputy Fire Chief Jay Enns serving as interim fire chief until the recruitment process is completed.