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William M. Bell has been named as the new fire chief in Richland Hills, City Manager James Quinn has announced.
Bell’s first day on the job will be Jan. 5. He retired as chief of Oak Park, Ill., to take the Richland Hills job.He has nearly 30 years of experience, including five in which he served as chief in Oak Park, a suburb of Chicago with a population of about 52,000.Bell was selected from six finalist in an initial field of more than 60 candidates. Keller-based recruitment firm, Strategic Government Resources, conducted the candidate search for the city. “Bell brings in-depth experience and knowledge, along with a passion for the fire service, to this post,” Quinn said. “Chief Bell is the professional we need at this time to take our department to the next level of excellence. His technical knowledge and extensive leadership experience will greatly benefit the Richland Hills Fire Department.”In a press release, Bell said he was looking forward to his new job.“My family and I love all the opportunities that a metro area offers, yet we prefer to live in a smaller community,” Bell said. "We are excited about moving to Richland Hills and look forward to getting to know the community.”Bell holds a masters degree in Science in Public Service from DePaul University, a bachelor's degree in accounting from Dominican University, and an associate of applied science degree in Fire Science Technology from Triton College.Nathaniel Jones, 817-390-7742
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