Sims Named New Bella Vista Fire Chief

The Property Owners Association has named Steve Sims the new Bella Vista Fire Chief.

Sims, who has worked for the Bella Vista Fire Department since 1995, will begin his new job immediately and will replace the former Chief Henry Thompson, retiring July 31.

Prior to joining the Bella Vista Fire Department, Sims worked as a rescue captain with the Avoca Fire and Rescue Department and lieutenant with the Johnson Fire Department.

He has an associate’s degree in Paramedic Science and in Fire Science and Administration from Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC). He graduated magna cum laude from both programs.

He received his bachelor’s degree in 2005 from Arkansas Tech University, where he graduated cum laude. Sims is currently working on a master’s degree from Arkansas Tech University in emergency management and homeland security.

Sims, who has participated in more than 50 training programs, hopes to expand the department’s community-based training efforts.

POA General Manager Tommy Bailey said Sims is a great choice for the new City of Bella Vista’s first fire chief. The Bella Vista Fire Department begun to operate under the jurisdiction of the new City of Bella Vista since early 2008.

“During his 12 years with the association, Steve has taken a great deal of initiative to further his career and better the community,” Bailey said. “He will lead the department well.”

Bella Vista Mayor Frank Anderson assisted Bailey and POA Human Resources Manager Larry Shoe in the selection process.