Fire Chief Message
Welcome to the City of Leesburg
Thank you for visiting the Leesburg Fire Department website and your interest in our organization.
The Leesburg Fire Department was founded in 1875 and transformed from a bucket brigade to the professional group of career firefighters it is today. The Department takes pride in its ability to serve the needs of the community and visitors. Each day, our citizens call upon our 45 firefighters to respond to a variety of emergencies including medical emergencies, structure fires, and vehicle accidents. Fire Prevention and Education also play a major role in our services to the Community of Leesburg.
Please visit our website often for press releases, public safety information, recruitment, and upcoming events. Please contact myself or members of my Senior Staff with any concerns or suggestions.
About the Chief
Joe Mera was appointed Chief of the Leesburg Fire Department on May 7, 2022 . Chief Mera has been a member of the Leesburg Fire Department since 2002. Over a 20 year span, Chief Mera rose through the ranks in the Leesburg Fire Department.
Chief Mera holds an Associate Degree in Paramedic Science Science from Keiser College in 2003; a Bachelor Degree in Fire Science from Columbia Southern University in 2006; and a Master’s Degree in Executive Fire Service Leadership from Waldorf University in 2019. In 2017 Chief Mera graduated from the Executive Fire Officer (EFO) Program; as an EFO graduate, he is honored to join a group of fellow graduates that make up less than 1% of senior fire officials from around the country. He has an extensive background as a Fire Service Instructor and taught for the department at several levels. Chief Mera's philosophy is that initial firefighter training and continual on-going training, to include live-fire training, is the most effective way to save lives on the fire ground. Professional memberships include the International Association of Fire Chief and Florida Fire Chiefs Association.