City of Yuma Appoints John Louser as Fire Chief

The City of Yuma has appointed John Louser as its next Fire Chief following a comprehensive national recruitment process. Louser, who has served as Acting Fire Chief since September, brings more than 25 years of fire service experience, including over 22 years with the Yuma Fire Department, and will continue leading the department into its next chapter.

The national search, conducted in partnership with Mosaic Public Partners, attracted 30 qualified applicants from across the country. Conducting a national recruitment ensured the City could assess a broad and competitive field, confirm organizational needs, and provide internal candidates the opportunity to compete and succeed at a national level.

"Conducting a national search was intentional," said Acting City Administrator Jay Simonton. "It shows that the City of Yuma is a place where experienced public safety leaders want to work and underscores the strength of our internal team. John stood out throughout the process for his leadership, experience, and understanding of our department and community."

The selection process took place over two days and included multiple opportunities for evaluation and feedback. Finalists participated in panel interviews with City leadership and with Fire Chiefs across the region and state, as well as meetings with City Administration. The process also included a public Meet and Greet, allowing staff, elected officials, and community members to meet the candidates and share input.

Louser joined the Yuma Fire Department in 2003 and has advanced through the ranks, serving as Firefighter/Paramedic, Fire Captain, Training Captain, Battalion Chief, EMS Division Chief, Deputy Fire Chief, and Acting Fire Chief. As Fire Chief, he will oversee department operations, emergency management, strategic planning, and community risk-reduction efforts.

"I am honored to have been chosen to step into the role of Fire Chief for the City of Yuma Fire Department," shared Chief Louser. "I'm deeply grateful to the public and to our city's leadership for their trust and support. I look forward to serving our residents and working alongside our dedicated men and women of the Yuma Fire Department to strengthen public safety and build on the department's proud tradition of excellence."

The strong interest in the position and the quality of the finalist pool reflect Yuma's reputation as a desirable community and employer, with a well-respected fire department.

"The interest we saw in this position says a lot," Simonton added. "People want to be in Yuma. They see our values, our momentum, and the way we approach our work. That makes this appointment even more meaningful."

Louser succeeds Fire Chief Dusty Fields, who retired this past September after more than 30 years of service in the fire profession.

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