5 Critical Updates Shaking Up The City Of Mentor Fire Department In 2025

The City of Mentor Fire Department (MFD) is undergoing one of its most transformative periods in recent history, marked by major leadership changes, significant infrastructure investments, and a drive to enhance emergency response capabilities across Lake County. As of late December 2025, the department is actively implementing a strategic plan that includes the appointment of a new Fire Chief, the approval of a critical new fire station, and continuous recruitment efforts to maintain its status as a full-service fire department dedicated to preserving life and property. This deep dive uncovers the most current and impactful developments at the MFD, providing residents and stakeholders with a comprehensive look at the department's future trajectory. From the swearing-in of new personnel to the details of the highly anticipated Fire Station 3 replacement, the updates below highlight the MFD's commitment to modernization and community safety.

The Changing of the Guard: New Leadership and Key Personnel

The most significant organizational change in 2025 was the appointment of a new leader to guide the Mentor Fire Department into its next era of service.

New Fire Chief: Ronald A. Zak

The City of Mentor officially announced the appointment of Ronald A. Zak as the new Mentor Fire Chief, effective January 17, 2025. This transition marks a pivotal moment for the department, bringing fresh perspectives to its operations and strategic planning. Chief Zak was formally sworn in by Mentor Municipal Judge John Trebets on February 11, 2025.

Biography Profile of Chief Ronald A. Zak

• Appointment Date: Effective January 17, 2025.
• Swearing-In Date: February 11, 2025.
• Role: Mentor Fire Chief, overseeing all departmental operations, the Fire Rescue Division, and the Fire Prevention Bureau.
• Predecessor: Chief Zak succeeded the retiring Fire Chief Robert Searles.
• Historical Context: His swearing-in ceremony was attended by three previous Mentor Fire Chiefs, including former Chiefs Rich Harvey and John Preuer, underscoring the department's tradition of leadership.

Aggressive Recruitment and Swearing-In Ceremonies

To meet the growing needs of the community, the Mentor Fire Department has been actively bolstering its ranks. The department added six new full-time firefighters in 2025. Multiple ceremonies throughout the year, including a major event on June 26, 2025, celebrated both promotions and the hiring of new firefighter/paramedics. A subsequent ceremony on December 8, 2025, at Mentor Fire Station #5, also recognized the swearing-in of new candidates. The MFD continues to hire full-time firefighter/paramedics, with an advertised annual salary range of $77,280.84 to $97,565.78, reflecting the competitive nature and high value placed on these essential emergency services positions.

Major Infrastructure Overhaul: The New Fire Station 3 Project

One of the most impactful developments for the City of Mentor’s long-term emergency response capability is the plan to replace the aging Fire Station 3.

Land Acquisition and Strategic Location

The City of Mentor is moving forward with the construction of a new, modern facility to replace the current Fire Station 3 located on Mentor Avenue. This project is designed to enhance emergency services and improve response times in critical areas of the city. In a key step approved by Mentor City Council during their regular meeting on February 18, 2025, the city purchased $2.7$ acres of land for the new station. The new location will be situated at the northeast corner of Johnnycake Ridge Road and Plaza Boulevard. This strategic positioning is intended to optimize coverage and operational efficiency for the Fire Rescue Division across Mentor. The construction of the new Fire Station 3 is a clear sign of the city's commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities for its first responders.

Beyond the Alarm: Essential Services and Community Outreach

The Mentor Fire Department operates as a full-service fire department, offering a wide array of programs that extend far beyond traditional fire suppression. The department’s essential mission is the day-to-day provision of emergency services to citizens, focusing on preservation of life and property.

Key Safety Assurance Programs

The MFD is proactive in fire prevention and safety, managing several community-focused initiatives:

• Fire Rescue Division: The core division responsible for all emergency responses, including fire, medical emergencies, and specialized rescue operations.
• Smoke Detector Program: The department provides free ionization smoke detectors to Mentor residents who cannot afford to purchase them, a vital service that helps detect low-level fires.
• Residential Lock Box Program: This service, provided by Mentor Fire Rescue, offers department-issued lock boxes. These secure boxes allow emergency personnel rapid, non-destructive access to a residence during a medical or other emergency, particularly beneficial for elderly or at-risk residents.
• Fire Prevention Bureau: This bureau manages inspections, code enforcement, and public safety education. Residents must seek approval from the Fire Prevention Bureau for bonfires by calling (440) 974-5768.

Community Involvement and Annual Events

Community engagement remains a cornerstone of the MFD's mission. For the 31st consecutive year in 2025, members of the Mentor Fire Department, along with their families and friends, participated in an annual charitable event. This long-standing tradition involves braving the elements to help those in need throughout Lake County, demonstrating the firefighters' dedication to the well-being of the wider region.

Mentor Fire Department: A Complete Roster of Stations

The MFD utilizes a strategic network of fire stations to ensure optimal coverage and rapid response times across the City of Mentor. The current operational structure is based out of four primary stations:

• Fire Station 1: Located at 6929 Heisley Road. This facility is a crucial hub, as it also includes the Regional Response Facility, supporting large-scale, multi-agency operations.
• Fire Station 2: Located at 5025 Corduroy Road. This station provides essential coverage to its designated area, ensuring all parts of the city have a prompt emergency response.
• Fire Station 3: The current station is located at 7957 Mentor Avenue. This facility is the focus of the major infrastructure project, as it is slated to be replaced by the new, modern station on Johnnycake Ridge Road/Plaza Boulevard.
• Fire Station 5: Located at 8467 Civic Center Boulevard, this station often serves as the main administrative and mailing address for the department, housing key personnel and resources.

The strategic location of these stations, coupled with the upcoming relocation of Fire Station 3, ensures the Mentor Fire Department can continue to deliver high-level emergency services to every neighborhood in the city. The continuous investment in personnel, leadership, and infrastructure guarantees that the MFD is prepared for the challenges of a growing and evolving community.

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