The Gulfport City Council will consider a new fire chief Tuesday after Chief Michael Beyerstedt announced his retirement.
Mayor Billy Hewes has submitted a letter of recommendation for Billy Kelley to become the next fire chief. Kelley’s accolades include serving as a deputy fire chief since 2017 and holding every sworn position at the Gulfport Fire Department including battalion chief, district chief, lieutenant, engineer and firefighter over a 20-year career. The city council will consider the appointment at the Sept. 7 meeting. Beyerstedt said his last day will be Oct. 1, and he then plans to serve as the general manager at Windance Country Club.