PEOPLE

Welcome Jarrell's New Fire Chief

As members of the Jarrell community prepare to bid a fond farewell to a beloved fire chief, they are pleased to welcome Chief Ron Stewart to meet the needs for safety and protection in our growing city.

Chief Mark McAdams is retiring this summer from his term of duty at the Jarrell Fire Department. While at the helm, he made many improvements to keep up with the increasing demands of this growing community. Coworkers and locals alike have expressed gratitude for his service, and wish him well in the next stage of his life. Fortunately, Chief McAdams has left the fire department, and our safety, in the very capable hands of with our newest Fire Chief Ron Stewart.

THE NEW CHIEF

Chief Stewart grew up in Belton, and studied Aviation at the University of Central Texas. He became a flight school instructor and paramedic and, after 13 years flying, he was given a new opportunity to grow as a training captain at his local fire department.

“The weight of this responsibility is huge,” Chief Stewart says, “because Chief McAdams built everything we see here today. He planted the seed for this, and now we get to enjoy the shade.”

Chief Stewart has big shoes to fill, but is already making plans to keep Jarrell safe and keep things familiar with the department. His plans include a focus on the safety and health of his crew. Making sure the equipment is maintained, sanitized, and up to health standards means firefighters stay prepared for anything Jarrell needs.

“My first priority is taking care of the guys,” Chief Stewart says. “If they are not safe then we cannot take care of the citizens. They are my first priority.”

For their part, the firefighters appreciate his passion. Fire Marshall Bobby Belcher says, “We will miss our old chief, but the new one is a great fit. He already has good ideas.”

by Cassidie Cox

VISIT THE STATION

Another of the new chief's priorities is to nurture positive relationships with residents of Jarrell. He has an 'open-door' policy at the station to allow people in Jarrell to get to know him and his firefighters, and he is already planning a 2023 summer camp for kids who want to learn more about being a firefighter.

“It is easier to take care of people when they know and trust us, and can recognize us around town,” Chief Stewart says. Residents can take advantage of his open invitation to say hello and learn more at 155 County Rd 313.