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April 28, 2022
Peoria designates new fire-medical chief BY JORDAN ROGERS Peoria Times Staff Writer
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The city of Peoria has selected Gary Bernard as its new Fire-Medical Department chief following a formal candidate selection process. Prior to the selection that replaced the former chief who retired on Dec. 31, 2021, Bernard worked for the city for over 30 years, including the last seven as deputy fire-medical chief. “It is my greatest privilege to serve as the chief for the Peoria Fire-Medical Department,” Bernard said. “Our all-hazards fire department is comprised of highly trained and motivated firefighters ready and willing to protect the residents and guests of Peoria. It is my honor to lead them.” Starting in 1991, Bernard worked
Pending city council approval on Tuesday, May 3, Gary Bernard will take over as Peoria Fire-Medical chief. (Peoria
his way through the ranks of the Peoria Fire-Medical Department. He spent time as a paramedic, engineer, captain, recruit training officer, wildland coordinator, battalion chief and deputy chief. Throughout his career, Bernard has received numerous awards, including the Aces of Hearts Award from the Arizona Emergency Medical Systems for his leadership during a multi-vehicle crash involving 12 patients. “I am so pleased to welcome Gary Bernard as Peoria’s next fire-medical chief,” Peoria Mayor Cathy Carlat said. “Chief Bernard’s service and exemplary leadership to our community over the past three decades has been instrumental as this department distinguished itself as a SEE CHIEF PAGE 6
Fire-Medical/Submitted)
Binsbacher says track record speaks for itself BY JORDAN ROGERS Peoria Times Staff Writer
After seven years as the Mesquite District’s councilmember, Bridget Binsbacher is ready to take the next step in her political career. If she becomes the next Peoria mayor, Binsbacher said she can build upon the relationships she made as councilmember to help the city grow. “I love this city,” Binsbacher said. “I’ve
been living and working in this city for decades. I’ve been serving in this city for many, many years and raised four kids here. After seven wonderful years on the council, I want to serve at the next level to continue the great work that we’re doing and beyond.” Binsbacher said she believes the experience she gained as a councilmember will serve her well as mayor. She said the Mesquite District was chock full of substantial projects, and the number of residents she
represented from Peoria’s largest district is in her favor. “It is definitely different from any other district, when it comes to leading the future of our city,” she said. “I feel like that experience in the Mesquite District has been paramount to preparing me to serve as Peoria’s mayor.” Binsbacher got her start in the banking industry. While working under that umbrella for 25 years, she specialized in busi-
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