University City Appoints William Hinson As Permanent Fire Chief

UNIVERSITY CITY, MO — University City has appointed William "Bill" Hinson as the city's new fire chief, according to a press release. Hinson has served as interim chief since January and was formally hired to fill the role permanently last week.

Hinson has 30 years of experience with fire and EMS service, officials said, and has been with the city for 25 of those years, starting as a firefighter and paramedic before being promoted to captain in 2000 and battalion chief in 2005.

Officials said Hinson was instrumental in securing the city's recently-announced $1.9 million SAFER grant that the city hopes to use to bring its ambulance service back in-house.

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“I am blessed and humbled to be selected as the newest fire chief for the city. I’ve spent the majority of my professional career with the University City Fire Department and have had the privilege of working alongside amazing firefighters,” Hinson said in a statement. “I thank Mr. Rose and the people of University City for their trust, and am excited for this opportunity.”

City manager Gregory Rose said he thought of conducting a national search to fill the position, but that Hinson distinguished himself as the top person for the job.

“I am excited to have Chief Hinson permanently join the management team and look forward to his stewardship of our Fire Department for many years into the future," he said.

The city will honor Hinson at the October 22 council meeting, during which his wife will pin him with his new badge, officials said.

Image provided by University City