New Fort Smith fire chief named

Darrell Clark has been promoted to fire chief of the Fort Smith Fire Department, according to a city of Fort Smith press release. Clark, the former assistant fire chief, succeeds Boyd Waters who recently retired after serving more than two years in the top job.

Clark’s first day in the chief role is Monday (Nov. 10), according to the city. His annual salary is $135,000.

He has spent nearly 27 years advancing through the ranks of the department, and “exhibited diligence in learning administrative responsibilities and preparing for leadership roles within the department,” noted the city statement. Clark has been the assistant fire chief since April 2023.

The department, which has a proposed 2026 budget of more than $16 million, has 150 uniformed officers, including 48 drivers and 45 firefighters. The department also has four non-uniformed staff.

The department has 26 vehicles, including nine pumper trucks, four ladder trucks, and one heavy rescue vehicle.

“I am honored to be entrusted with leading our department into the future,” Clark said in a statement. “The greatness of the Fort Smith Fire Department comes from the brave men and women who have served in the past and continue to serve today.

“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside many incredible leaders who have shaped my life and career. My predecessor, Chief Waters, offered me valuable advice that I’ll carry forward: ‘This is an amazing department. Prepare the next generation of leaders and leave the department better than you found it, and you’ve done a good job.’”