PEORIA, Ill. — Peoria Fire Department Chief Anthony “Tony” Ardis has announced he will retire this month.
Ardis’ last day on the job will be May 14, according to a news release.
Ardis joined the fire department in 1994 and served as the assistant chief and division chief of operations before becoming chief in 2019.
“Chief Ardis has been a passionate leader of the Peoria Fire Department, and his concern for the well-being of the citizens and the employees of the Fire Department is second to none. I wish him all the best in retirement,” said Peoria City Manager Patrick Urich.
Assistant Fire Chief James Bachman, who has also been with the department since 1994, will replace Ardis as chief.
“Chief Bachman has served with distinction as assistant chief. Chief Bachman has the management and leadership skills to lead a complex organization and the same care and concern for the Fire Department and citizens as Chief Ardis. I am excited to see Chief Bachman assume the leadership of the Peoria Fire Department,” said Urich.
Bachman has previously served Peoria as a firefighter, engineer, captain, battalion chief and division chief of operations.
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