The City of Mesa has hired a new fire chief, a trailblazer for individuals in her department. Mary Cameli was among the first women firefighters hired by Mesa 33 years ago, and now she is the new chief of the Fire and Medical Department. She was appointed the interim chief on Oct 4 to replace retired Chief Harry Beck, and her permanent position as chief became official on Thursday. "Mary has shown tremendous leadership ability, not only in her short time as Interim Chief, but in numerous assignments with the Fire and Medical Department," City Manager Chris Brady said in a news release.