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Published: 02 May 2014 02 May 2014

Silver City Fire Chief Rudy Bencomo has announced that he will retire at the end of June.

Bencomo stated: "The timing seems to be right. In the last 6 months great things have occurred. We were awarded a $60,000 grant for new structural protective gear for all personnel, the passage of the Public Safety Tax by voters, the awarding of legislative monies of $105,000 towards the purchase of a new fire ambulance, and just recently the awarding of $24,000 for a new heart monitor for on-duty paramedics.

"It's very satisfying to know that the department will be able to continue the service to the community with new equipment and apparatus," Bencomo continued. "In the past 11 years, we have added over $2 million in new medical and fire equipment, along with fire apparatus with Fire Protection monies, EMS funding, Office of Emergency funding, Public Safety Tax, state and federal grants.

I was honored to be named Fire Chief in 2003 and again in 2007 to serve the residents of Silver City," he said. "A lot of great things have been accomplished during these years and we would not have been successful had it not been for the support, patience, and commitment, from our Town Manager Alex Brown, former and present city government officials, and fire personnel. All have contributed with their input and ideas.

He said the changes and improvements implemented over the course of 11 years have set a great foundation for the department to continue to grow and move in the right direction.

"I have a great administration staff and believe the transition to new leadership will be smooth," Bencomo said. "I want to thank Mr. Robert Morales for encouraging me to apply for Fire Chief,. Had it not been for him, I would not have considered taking on the task of leading this department. In addition, I want to acknowledge and thank former Fire Chief Danny Vasquez, former fire line firefighters, officers I served with and for, present fire personnel, family, and especially my wife Frances for all of her support in good and tough times."

Bencomo said he didn't have specific plans for now, other than enjoying some time off and spending time with family. He has been employed by the Town of Silver City for 30 years, the past 11 serving as the Fire Chief.