Eudora names new fire chief

The Eudora City Council has named longtime firefighter and medic Randy Ates from Yellville, Ark., as the city’s new fire chief.

The council approved the hiring on a 4-1 vote – with Councilman Kevin Miller dissenting – this week after a search of almost 18 months.

Ates says he hopes to start on Aug. 21 after he moves to the area with his wife, Sandy.

Eudora Mayor Tom Pyle lauded Ates for his experience, including some as a medic on a helicopter.

Ates also has commended the setup of the volunteer department in Eudora. He has spent much of his time recently training other firefighters in Arkansas.

Deputy Fire Chief Mike Underwood will remain in charge in Eudora until Ates starts.