Texarkana, Ark., Fire Chief Bobby Honea is retiring effective this Friday, April 8.

"We have conducted interviews and expect to name an interim any day now," said City Manager Kenny Haskin.

Chief Honea served in the Texarkana, Ark., Fire Department for more than 36 years. Honea began his career as a firefighter in 1980.

After numerous advancements in rank, he was promoted to Fire Chief in 1999. During his tenure as chief, he was responsible for the building and relocation of two fire stations and expansion of fire services to the northern part of the City, which included acquisition of land and building a fifth fire station.

The minimum staffing was increased from 13 firefighters to 16 firefighters on duty at all times. This action allowed the Insurance Services Office (ISO) to reduce the TAFD rating from a Class 5 to a Class 4, which produced lower fire insurance premiums for Texarkana, Arkansas citizens.

During his career, Chief Honea received Training Officer Certification through the Arkansas Fire Academy.  In 2000, he received an Associate Degree of Applied Science in Fire Protection from Garland Community College.

The City of Texarkana, Ark., congratulates Chief Honea on his retirement and wishes him well as he begins his next journey.

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