By Owen Woods | owen@alamosacitizen.com
ALAMOSA
THE city of Alamosa has named Bill Stone as its new fire chief. His first day will be Oct. 17, allowing a transition between him and outgoing Fire Chief Don Chapman.
Chapman is retiring after 39 years, including 17 years as chief. His last day will be Nov. 4.
“Chief Chapman has worked hard to improve relationships with fire districts across the valley, acquire up-to-date equipment and apparatus, and maintain a qualified and dedicated volunteer department. Chief Chapman’s dedication and commitment to not only the Alamosa community, but also the department and each volunteer will be missed,” city officials said in a prepared statement.
Alamosa Fire Department Assistant Chief Tony Bobicki is also retiring. Bobicki has been on the job for 37 years, and 17 years as assistant chief alongside Chapman.
Stone has been a firefighter for 26 years, including 21 years in the Boise, Idaho, Fire Department and five years as division chief of training for the Eagle, Idaho, Fire Department.
Stone has a B.A. in psychology from Adams State University and an A.A. in fire science from Spokane Community College in Washington.
“The city is very fortunate to have time for Chief Chapman and Chief Stone to work together to ensure a seamless transition,” Alamosa communications specialist Jasmine Husmann said in a news release.
A retirement ceremony will be held at a later date for Chapman and Bobicki.