WTAW’s Bill Oliver visits with R.B. Alley.
News release from the City of College Station:
College Station Fire Chief R.B. Alley III announced Monday that he will retire effective June 28, bringing to an end 40 years in the firefighting profession.
Chief Alley has led CSFD since May 2005. Prior to his arrival, Alley was district fire chief in Virginia Beach, VA. He began his fire services career as a volunteer firefighter in 1973.
Earlier this year, Alley was named Fire Chief of the Year by the Texas Fire Chiefs Association, which is the group’s highest honor for service that also recognizes a department’s significant achievements through a chief’s leadership and vision.
“I consider myself very blessed to have had the opportunity to work for such a great city, outstanding city council and to be part of such a talented and professional city management team,” Alley said. “I’m so very proud to have had the opportunity and privilege to work with the men and women of the College Station Fire Department. These outstanding professionals represent the best of America’s fire service. I look forward to seeing the many great accomplishments and milestones that CSFD will achieve in the years to come.”
During Alley’s tenure, College Station built and staffed Fire Station Nos. 3, 5 and 6, and placed a dedicated ladder company, a 3,000-gallon fire truck and a fourth staffed ambulance in service. The College Station Fire Department is comprised of nearly 140 personnel and has a budget of $13.1 million.
No decisions have been made yet regarding an acting fire chief or what initial steps will occur regarding the search for a new chief, according to Interim City Manager Kathy Merrill.