As the Blanco Volunteer Fire Department (BVFD) reorganizes to better integrate with local Emergency Medical Services under the umbrella of Emergency Services District #2, it will have a new person at the helm.
Robert Stewart has been named the new Fire Chief for BVFD. He was selected on Wednesday, Jan. 17 and introduced himself during the ESD #2 meeting on Monday, Jan. 26 in the Blanco Volunteer Ambulance Corp Training Room.
“I worked in the Spring Branch area and Bulverde,” Stewart told the ESD directors. “I also worked with Canyon Lake Fire and EMS. At that time, that department was both volunteer and paid.”
Stewart will have his work cut out for him as the BVFD reorganizes under the ESD #2 strategic plan that seeks to better integrate fire and EMS services. It is a task that he fully embraces.
“I am trying to get this up and running,” Stewart said. “I think we can do it. It will be a challenge, but I have confidence in our plan moving forward.”
Stewart is a lieutenant in the Blanco Police Department.
“He’s has a background in fire and police work,” said Jack Twilley, who has been appointed by ESD #2 to serve on the oversight board of the reconstituted volunteer fire department. “He has a lot of talent and experience. I think he will do a fine job.”
A local resident was curious about his dual role with the police and fire departments. Stewart said he would do his best.
“It is going to be a challenge, but I’m up for it,” he said. “In fact, I’m looking forward to it.”
Stewart succeeds Ron Sallman and has been serving as assistant chief.
Stewart graduated from Smithson Valley High School in 1998 and has long been a volunteer firefighter in the area, even while in school. In 1999, he graduated from the Canyon Lake Fire Academy and was hired as a full-time firefighter by the Bulverde Fire Department, while simultaneously volunteering in the Spring Branch Fire Department. He holds Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification and has also worked in Hays County for both fire and emergency medical departments.
Stewart’s dedication to public service, particularly since he began at such an early age, has earned him a reputation as a dedicated public servant.
He graduated from San Antonio College Law Enforcement Training Academy in 2008 and joined the Blanco Police Department to train. In 2009 he joined the Blanco Police Department in a full- time capacity and was quickly promoted to sergeant. He has earned numerous citations for exceptional service.
One of Stewart’s primary goals will be to encourage more participation on the part of local residents with BVFD, particularly as it transitions into its new role with EMS, both of which are administered by ESD #2.
Anyone wishing to become a volunteer firefighter must be 18 years of age, have a clean criminal and driving record, and have available time for training and education. Call 830-833-5009, or drop by the Blanco Fire Station at 503 Pecan Street for more information.
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