Pocatello Fire Chief David Gates has announced he will retire on Dec. 31 after more than 27 years of service with the department.
The city will throw Gates a going away party on Dec. 30. The time and location have not been determined.
“I think we have one of the best department’s going,” Gates said.
Mayor Brian Blad will select Gates’ replacement. Blad said the city anticipates receiving applications from good internal candidates and will also look nationally for qualified candidates. He expects to close the application period at the month’s end and to end interviews and make a job offer by mid-December.
Blad said Gates has been an asset to the community.
“He’s been a great employee and a really good chief, and I appreciate all he’s done,” Blad said.
Gates said he looks forward to traveling, doing household projects, gardening and playing handball. He also intends to invest more time in managing his rental properties.