Boyd Waters named as new Fort Smith fire chief

After serving as acting fire chief, Boyd Waters has been named as the next chief in Fort Smith.

Waters follows former Fire Chief Phil Christensen who died after a nine-month battle with cancer in February. Waters had served as the interim chief since Christensen's death.

Carl Geffken, Fort Smith city administrator, on Monday appointed Waters as fire chief.

“Boyd Waters was promoted to Assistant Chief on the same day the late Phil Christensen was promoted to fire chief," Geffken stated in a news release. "He supported Phil in all aspects of the job and kept the department running on all cylinders through a very difficult time. Boyd’s experience, character, and dedication to the FSFD made him a clear choice for the role. I am pleased to see him move into this leadership position with our city."

Waters stated Monday, “This appointment carries with it mixed emotions for me. I am honored that the city administrator and board of directors have the faith in me to continue Phil’s legacy. He left big shoes to fill and I will share in the same commitment and dedication he had to lead this department and serve the residents of Fort Smith."

Waters has been with the Fort Smith Fire Department since February 2000. In February 2004 he was promoted to driver followed by a promotion to captain in February 2011. Waters was promoted to battalion chief/shift commander in September 2013 and assistant chief in August 2016.

Waters is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Southern Arkansas University Tech. He holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in Fire and Emergency Response.

This article originally appeared on Fort Smith Times Record: Fort Smith names new fire chief