Chief Bill Porche: A Job Well Done!

On Wednesday, Central Mayor Jr. Shelton had high praise for Bill Porche, the long-time chief of the Central Fire Department. Porche announced his retirement December 5.
Chief Porche joined the department as a volunteer in 1979, became a full-time firefighter in 1988, and has been chief since 1996.
Mayor Shelton said, “Bill Porche is the ultimate firefighter! He truly cares about our citizens. He has the full confidence of his department. He is a true leader.”
The mayor said Porche showed extraordinary leadership during the flood of August 2016. “He led the emergency efforts, which prevented deaths or serious injury during the most trying of times.”
As Mayor of Central, Shelton has had ultimate responsibility for emergency preparedness in the city. However, he said Chief Porche has been his mentor and guide. “He taught me so much about how to help the citizens of Central.”
“In an emergency situation, Bill takes control. He’s the ultimate professional. If you have questions, he has answers. He knows everybody and everything that needs to be done. He will be sorely missed!”
Mayor Shelton said that despite the loss of Porche, the community can have confidence in Interim Fire Chief Stephen Branscum.
“I’ve known Stephen since he was a student at CPS. Since he was six, he wanted to be a Central firefighter. He’s the best trained and qualified we have. His father was on the board. Stephen has it in his blood. We’ll be in good hands!”