VAN BUREN (KFSM) - After battling fires for nearly 30 years, one man's dedication to the Van Buren Fire Department is paying off with a new title.
Tim Arnold will begin his adventure as the new fire chief on Friday (July 1). He has been with the Van Buren Fire Department for 27 years and has served as battalion chief for the past 11 years.
The Arkansas native is looking forward to the future of becoming the fire chief, as he will be trading in his gear for more of a job that's behind the scenes.
Not only is he ready for the Monday through Friday schedule, he is also moving into his own office.
"This is kind of a new aspect of the job," said Arnold.
Arnold said there's not much to change as the Van Buren Fire Department is already a great station.
"The fire department is already in good shape and it has good people, good equipment," said Arnold.
He added that the mayor and the previous fire chief have done a wonderful job, and he hopes the department continues to be that way.
Arnold said, "I've been involved for a long time and pleased at how the department is going."
In addition to a new chief, the Van Buren Fire Department is also getting a new ladder truck, which should hit the streets later this month.