Salida Fire Chief Doug Bess Retires After Nearly 30 Years

After 29 years of service, Salida Fire Chief Doug Bess has retired.

Born and raised in Salida, Bess began working as a volunteer firefighter in 1992, became full time in 1994 and was promoted to Captain in 1996. He held that position for eighteen years before being promoted to Chief in 2012.

Bess says his favorite memories and accomplishments include ensuring firefighters in Salida had the tools and resources to perform their jobs effectively and safely. In addition to building the department, Bess said his biggest accomplishment was securing a State Historical Grant and raising funds to restore the City’s 1911 Kissel Fire Engine.