EL DORADO HILLS – After an impressive 35-year career in fire service, El Dorado Hills Fire Chief Maurice “Mo” Johnson is turning in his badge. Johnson, who has served as the department’s leader since 2019, has announced his retirement and plans officially step down from the helm of the department this month, putting a cap on legacy career of of dedication, resilience, and community leadership.
Thursday afternoon, Chief Johnson expressed his gratitude for his time in El Dorado Hills and his excitement for the future. “After much thought and reflection, I have made the decision to retire,” Johnson shared with Folsom Times. “It has been the greatest honor of my career to serve this community and lead this outstanding organization for the past six years.”
Johnson’s journey into fire service began unexpectedly in 1988 when his mother encouraged him to participate in a career mentorship program. During a ride-along with the Citrus Heights Fire Department, he discovered a passion for the profession that would shape the next three decades of his life.
He officially launched his professional public service career in 1989, joining the Sacramento County Fire Protection District in operations. He later became a firefighter for the Fair Oaks Fire Department, which eventually merged to form the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District. Johnson spent 28 years with Sacramento Metro, rising through the ranks to serve as assistant chief of Special Operations and Governmental Affairs before accepting the fire chief position in El Dorado Hills in 2019.
Photos: Folsom Times, Style Media, Hearts 4 Heroes USA.
During his tenure as chief, Johnson has been credited with fostering a culture of excellence within the department and enhancing the safety and resilience of the El Dorado Hills community. “The men and women of the El Dorado Hills Fire Department are among the finest I have had the privilege to work with in my 34-year career,” said Johnson. “Their unwavering dedication to serving and protecting this community inspires me every day.”
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Johnson has been a longtime resident of El Dorado Hills, calling the area home for the past 20 years. His connection to the community has been a driving force throughout his career. “To the citizens of El Dorado Hills, thank you for your trust, support, and partnership. It has been a privilege to serve you, and I will forever cherish the opportunity I’ve had to be part of this incredible community,” he said.
Looking ahead, Johnson plans to remain active as an advocate for firefighter safety and the advancement of the fire service at the local, state, and national levels. “While this is my retirement from the El Dorado Hills Fire Department, I will continue to remain involved,” he said.
To address the transition in leadership, the El Dorado Hills Fire Department Board of Directors has scheduled a special meeting on December 9 to discuss the appointment of an interim fire chief to fill Johnson’s vacancy.
