Photo courtesy of South Placer Fire Department

GRANITE BAY/LOOMIS, CA (MPG) - On Tuesday, Nov. 18, the South Placer Fire District (SPFD) Board of Directors congratulated Chief Mark Duerr who announced at a Nov. 6 meeting he would retire on Dec. 31.

After a closed session meeting that evening, South Placer Fire District Board Chair Tracy Randall also announced the Board of Directors had unanimously appointed Deputy Chief Darin Snedeker to be the next South Placer Fire District Chief effective Jan. 1, 2026, pending finalization of a contract.

Chair Randall noted the valuable contributions Chief Duerr made to the district since he was appointed chief in September 2021. 

“Chief Duerr was hired during a challenging time for the district,” said Chair Randall. “As an example, he improved the allocation of resources to help stabilize district finances and instituted measures to ensure new development pays its own way for the additional service demands created by growth in commercial and residential building within the district.” 

Chair Randall added, “We’re very grateful for Chief Duerr’s contributions and accomplishments during his tenure as chief for South Placer.” 

Chief Duerr has resided in Placer County with his wife and three children for over 20 years. He came to South Placer Fire District from the Stockton Fire Department where he worked for more than 22 years, promoting through the ranks from firefighter/paramedic, to engineer, captain, battalion chief, division chief and ultimately the deputy chief of administration. 

“It’s been my sincere pleasure to serve as chief for the Granite Bay and Loomis communities” said Duerr. 

“While I will be retiring at the end of this year, the strength of South Placer Fire District lies in the professionalism of our firefighters and staff who serve and protect our community with great dedication.” 

In promoting Deputy Chief Snedeker to chief, the South Placer Fire District Board noted his exemplary reputation in the region. Chief Snedeker is a 20-year resident of Granite Bay. He and his wife are raising two children who attend school in Granite Bay, while participating in athletics and after school activities in Loomis. Chief Snedeker began as deputy chief at South Placer Fire District in August of this year. 

He has over 25 years of experience in fire service, beginning as a seasonal firefighter for CalFire, where he later became a firefighter paramedic. Before becoming deputy fire chief at South Placer Fire District in August of this year, he had a career with the City of Sacramento Fire Department spanning over 20 years, beginning again as a firefighter, then becoming a firefighter paramedic, captain and battalion chief.

“Chief Snedeker is known for his leadership and has special expertise in operations and training. We are pleased he is a member of our team,” said Chair Randall. “Chief Snedeker’s appointment helps make the district well poised to face the challenges facing fire districts in Placer County and throughout California.”

“As a resident of the South Placer Fire District (SPFD), I am excited to bring my passion for fire service to my own community,” said Chief Snedeker. 

“I look forward to working with South Placer Fire District (SFPD) firefighters, staff, the Board and community members to ensure the highest level of fire protection and public safety for the South Placer Fire District (SPFD).” 

The South Placer Fire District Board will be working closely over the coming months with both Chiefs Duerr and Snedeker to ensure a smooth transition.