Plano names interim fire chief

With Fire Chief Hugo Esparza set to retire, the city of Plano wasted no time in hiring an interim chief to serve until a replacement can be found.

William "Bill" Peterson, who served as the city's fire chief from 1982-2006, was officially hired in an interim capacity by the city council Tuesday night, and began work on Wednesday. Esparza's official last day will be July 2, but Peterson is now in charge of all departmental operations.

Deputy City Manager LaShon Ross said the city is already in the process of hiring a search firm to help find its next fire chief, and hopes to have the process complete and a new chief hired in the next four to six months.

"The process takes a little time since we want to make sure we have all the information we need about job requirements, as well as all of the recruiting and marketing materials to make the job as attractive as possible," she said.

Ross said the search firm will narrow down any applicants using criteria set by the city, and forward those that make the cut on to the city for further review. She said Peterson was hired due to his familiarity with departmental policy.

"We talked about what the department's needs are right now, what we are currently working on and what is coming up in the immediate future," she said. "It was determined that in order to continue operations as they are, we needed to have someone come in. Since William Peterson has experience with the department, he would meet the requirements to hold that position. He should also be able to work well with the staff since many of them were here when he was chief."

After his appointment, Peterson said he was honored to be chosen to once again lead the Plano Fire Department and will ensure the quality of service remains high during his time as interim chief.

"I look forward to working with the familiar staff and personnel at the Plano Fire Department," Peterson said. " As a citizen of Plano myself, I recognize the importance of the continuity of excellent service which is expected by our citizens. I have no doubt that fire station personnel will continue to meet these expectations during this bridging of chiefs."

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