Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue recently promoted part-time Fire Protection Specialist Arnold Antonio to full-time Code Enforcement Officer in the department’s Community Risk Reduction Division.

Antonio previously served as a Community Risk Reduction Intern with the city from 2014-2016 and thereafter as a part-time Fire Protection Specialist, beginning in that capacity in January of 2016.

“Arnold brings some highly valued experience, skills, and local knowledge to this position that will certainly benefit our collective city team efforts and the incredible community we serve.” Fire Chief Dan Stefano stated. “We anticipate an immediate transition into his new role, under the direction and mentoring of our Assistant Fire Marshal Jon Neal.”

Antonio started his new position this past week, which was created by Jon Neal’s promotion to Assistant Fire Marshal at the end of last year.

Antonio’s experience with us has included overseeing our permit program, being a lead with our apartment inspections, playing a key role with our fire and life safety inspections, including sprinklers, alarms and new construction.

In addition, Antonio has been our lead for the Knox Box program and will be taking on additional responsibilities related to our sober living home issues.

Prior to his experience with the Costa Mesa Fire & Rescue team, he proudly served eight years of active military duty as a Damage Controlman/Auxiliary Security Force aboard the USS Constellation and the USS Comstock, as well as two years as a reserve at the Naval Weapons Station in Seal Beach.

Further, this past year, Antonio successfully completed his Associates Degree from Santa Ana College and has also completed a number of Community Risk Reduction and Fire Service certifications.