After conducting a nationwide recruitment effort, Lake Havasu City is proud to welcome Peter J. Pilafas as its new Fire Chief. Chief Pilafas has 24 years of experience in the fire service, most recently serving as the Deputy Fire Chief for the Village of Oak Park, Illinois since 2015.  In addition to being a career firefighter, Chief Pilafas also served as Adjunct Faculty at the College of DuPage in the Fire Science Program teaching courses such as Fire Prevention, Firefighter Safety & Survival and Building Construction.  

City Manager Jess Knudson is excited to have Chief Pilafas begin his new role as the Fire Chief today. Chief Pilafas will work from his Lake Havasu City residence for a period of time while he self-quarantines after out-of-state travel.    

“Chief Pilafas is the right leader to guide the Fire Department, ensure a collaborative approach with the City departments and regional partners, and serve the residents of Lake Havasu City.  We are lucky to have someone with an impressive fire service, leadership and financial background join our team,” he said.

Chief Pilafas holds an MBA from Benedictine University and will achieve his Executive Fire Officer credentials after completing the National Fire Academy program this summer.

“My family and I are excited for this opportunity, and I look forward to upholding the Lake Havasu City Fire Department’s reputation for outstanding fire service and public safety operations on behalf of the City.” Fire Chief Pilafas.

Attachment: Picture of Fire Chief Peter Pilafas