To: Board of Directors
From: Aaron J. McAlister, Chief, Contra Costa County Fire Protection District
Report Title: 2026 Firefighter of the Year
Recommendation: Recommendation of the County Administrator
RECOMMENDATIONS:
ADOPT a Resolution recognizing Fire Captain Karl Taugher as the 2026-2027 Firefighter of the Year, as recommended by the Fire Chief.
FISCAL IMPACT:
BACKGROUND:
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
The Board of Supervisors of Contra Costa County, California
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IN THE MATTER OF recognizing Fire Captain Karl Taugher as the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District 2026-2027 Firefighter of the Year;
WHEREAS, Captain Taugher has distinguished himself through exceptional technical knowledge, initiative, dependability, and an unwavering willingness to take on challenges; and
WHEREAS, Captain Taugher has been selected by his peers as the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District 2026-2027 Firefighter of the Year in recognition of his outstanding contributions, consistent pursuit of improvement, and commitment to the success of the District; and
WHEREAS, Captain Taugher began his career with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District on January 19, 2016, and has consistently demonstrated a high level of competence and professionalism in every position he has held; and
WHEREAS, Captain Taugher has become a recognized subject matter expert in self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) operations and training, taking responsibility for SCBA instruction and elevating the quality, consistency, and effectiveness of training provided to District personnel; and
WHEREAS, Captain Taugher has also been an essential contributor to the District’s Heavy Equipment Program, where his technical knowledge, mechanical aptitude, and ability to identify and resolve problems have made him a trusted resource and valuable member of the program; and
WHEREAS, Captain Taugher is known throughout the organization for his ability to translate technical knowledge into practical solutions, his willingness to take action when a need arises, and his ability to work effectively with members at every level of the Fire District; and
WHEREAS, Captain Taugher exemplifies the Fire District's core values through his exceptional work ethic, intelligence, dependability, and commitment to serving others, making him an invaluable asset; and
WHEREAS, Captain Taugher has demonstrated that meaningful contributions to the fire service extend beyond emergency response, through the knowledge he shares, the systems he improves, and the lasting impact he has on the organization; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Board of Directors recognizes, congratulates, and thanks Fire Captain Karl Taugher as the 2026-2027 Firefighter of the Year for his outstanding service, leadership, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.
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