Peoria Fire Department Chief Anthony “Tony” Ardis announced he will be retiring this month.
Chief Ardis joined the Fire Department in 1994, previously serving as the Assistant Chief and the Division Chief of Operations. Chief Ardis has also held several positions of leadership within Firefighters Local 50.
He assumed the position of Fire Chief on Nov. 30, 2019, and his last day will be May 14.
Assistant Chief James Bachman has been named the new Chief of the Peoria Fire Department by City Manager Patrick Urich.
Currently the Assistant Chief, Bachman began his career with the Peoria Fire Department on May 9, 1994. He has served the community as a Firefighter, Engineer, Captain, Battalion Chief and Division Chief of Operations.