Dunedin Swears In Fire Chief, Promoted Leadership and New Firefighters

Published on November 13, 2025

The City of Dunedin recognized its newly appointed fire chief, other promoted leadership and five new firefighters during a swearing-in ceremony November 6 at City Hall. The event brought together the City Commission, City Manager, department staff, families and residents to recognize milestones in the agency’s leadership and personnel.

Fire Chief Michael Handoga, who was formally appointed earlier this year, delivered opening remarks highlighting the department’s commitment to readiness, professionalism and community service. He thanked city officials for their continued support and emphasized the significance of the evening’s recognitions.

Handoga joined Dunedin Fire Rescue in 2016 and previously served as the City’s deputy fire chief, fire marshal and deputy fire marshal. He began his fire service career with the St. Pete Beach Fire Department and later became a chief officer with Largo Fire Rescue. He holds a master’s degree in emergency services management and maintains the Chief Fire Officer designation, a distinction held by fewer than 2,100 fire chiefs worldwide.

Three additional leaders were also sworn into their new roles:

• Deputy Chief Steve Santana, who brings more than 34 years of fire service experience, including deployments with Urban Search and Rescue Florida Task Force 3.
• Deputy Chief Mark Zipeto, a nearly 30-year veteran of Dunedin Fire Rescue whose career has included roles from lieutenant to division chief of EMS.
• Fire Marshal Danny Castillo, who has more than 15 years of fire service experience and advanced credentials in fire investigation, code enforcement and life safety education.

Five new firefighters were also sworn and welcomed into the department:

• Rustam Agakhanov, who grew up in East Lake, earned his EMT certification through the School of EMS and later graduated from St. Petersburg College’s Fire Academy. He holds Florida State certifications as a Firefighter II and EMT.
• Taylor Byrd, a U.S. Navy veteran, is a graduate of the St. Petersburg College Combined EMT/Fire Academy program and holds state certifications as a Firefighter II and EMT.
• Ryan Smith, a firefighter/paramedic, has experience from Hillsborough and Jefferson counties. He graduated from Tampa Fire’s Academy and earned both his EMT and Paramedic certifications through Hillsborough Community College, where he also completed an Associate Degree in Emergency Medical Services.  
• Julian Zeqiri, who grew up in Clearwater, graduated from the Florida State Fire College and holds state certifications as both Firefighter and EMT. He follows a family tradition in the fire service.

Following the oath of office, family members participated in the traditional badge-pinning. The ceremony highlighted the department’s ongoing focus on leadership development and service to the community. You can view a photo recap of the ceremony here.