Rodolfo Cardona Appointed New Eagle Pass Fire Chief
By Jose G. Landa, Copyright 2026 Eagle Pass Business Journal, Inc.
The City of Eagle Pass announced Tuesday, September 29, 2026 the appointment of Rodolfo Cardona as the city’s new fire chief following what officials described as a thorough selection process.
Cardona brings extensive experience within the Eagle Pass Fire Department, where he has served in several leadership positions, including assistant fire chief and fire marshal.
He also serves as emergency management coordinator for the Emergency Operations Center, helping coordinate local response efforts during emergencies and critical incidents.
Throughout his career, Cardona has been involved in emergency response, fire prevention, firefighter training, public safety initiatives and departmental operations.
Mayor Aaron Valdez congratulated Cardona and emphasized the importance of experienced leadership within the department.
“On behalf of the City of Eagle Pass, I want to congratulate Rodolfo Cardona on his appointment as Fire Chief,” Valdez said. “Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our residents, and strong leadership is essential to supporting them.”
Valdez said Cardona has demonstrated a strong commitment to the department and the community and expressed confidence in the leadership and service he will continue providing.
That experience was also highlighted by City Manager Homero Balderas, who said Cardona understands the responsibilities that come with leading the department.
“Rodolfo Cardona has dedicated his career to serving the people of Eagle Pass and understands the responsibilities that come with leading our Fire Department,” Balderas said. “We look forward to working with Chief Cardona as we continue strengthening our emergency services and supporting the men and women of the Eagle Pass Fire Department.”
Cardona expressed appreciation for the opportunity and said he is honored by the trust placed in him. He also recognized the dedication of the firefighters and emergency personnel he will now lead.
Cardona succeeds Manuel “Sonny” Mello III, who recently retired after 34 years of service to the City of Eagle Pass and the Eagle Pass Fire Department.
The department provides emergency response, fire prevention, emergency medical services, training and other programs intended to protect lives and property throughout the community.
