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Board honors outgoing Director Steve Berto for leadership and service
Summary
Ross Valley Fire Department leaders and union representatives thanked Director Steve Berto for nearly six years on the board, citing staffing gains, a station remodel and advocacy for firefighter health and wellness.
The Ross Valley Fire Department board recognized Director Steve Berto at his final meeting, thanking him for nearly six years of service and for work that board members said strengthened the department.
Chief Mahoney noted that during Berto’s tenure the department moved to three-person engine staffing and added a 40-hour-per-week battalion chief. Chief Mahoney also credited Berto with supporting the Fire Station 20 remodel and said the board presented Berto with a signed rural firefighter’s helmet “in thanks to you.”
Tommy Pastelka, president of the Ross Valley Firefighters Association, told the board, “Ross Valley Fire Department is the best version of itself that we have ever seen,” and thanked Berto for his guidance. A longtime firefighter who identified himself during public comment as Sid offered personal reflections about working with Berto and urged continued collaboration between board members and firefighters as leadership transitions occur.
The board’s recognition precedes the annual officer appointments; the board later appointed Director Julie McMillan as president and Director Kohler as vice president for 2026.
