UNIVERSITY CITY, Mo. – City Manager of University City, Gregory Rose, has appointed William “Bill” Hinson to the position of Fire Chief for the city’s Fire Department.
“I gave considerable thought to conducting a national search to fill the position, but believe that Chief Hinson distinguished himself as the top person for the position during his time in the interim role,” Rose said. “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.”
Hinson was hired to the position late last week. He had been serving as the Interim Fire Chief since January of this year. He has worked in the Fire and EMS field for over 30 years and has been with the University City Fire Department for 25 years.
Hinson started as a firefighter and paramedic before making Captain in 2000, then Battalion Chief in 2005. He and fellow firefighter Matt Pagano were instrumental in implementing the department’s drone program and writing the application that recently secured the $1.9M SAFER grant for the department.
“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. “I thank Mr. Rose and the people of University City for their trust, and am excited for this opportunity.”
Although Hinson has already taken over his official duties as the permanent Fire Chief, he will be honored during the City Council meeting on Monday, Oct. 22. During this meeting, his wife will pin him with his new badge.