Shauwn Howell’s retirement as Pine Bluff fire chief will take effect April 2, the city announced in a news release Thursday.
News of Howell’s retirement emerged earlier this week as the city announced its “separation” with Denise Richardson as police chief. But Thursday was the first time the city had formally announced Howell’s upcoming departure, even as Mayor Vivian Flowers commented on it for an article printed that morning in The Commercial.
“Chief Howell was not terminated from his position,” the release reads in response to multiple reports that Howell was fired. “His retirement is a personal decision and is being made in full cooperation with city leadership.”
Howell publicly commented on his retirement for the first time in the release. His department, city officials say, culminates an “exceptional” 26-year career in the Pine Bluff Fire & Emergency Services Department.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to have served the citizens of Pine Bluff and to have worked alongside such dedicated and courageous individuals over the past 26 years,” Howell said in the release. “I am proud of the contributions we have made to the safety and well-being of our community. I am happy to assist in any way possible to ensure a smooth transition during this time.”
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Flowers said Howell’s impact on public safety legacy of Pine Bluff will not be forgotten.
“Chief Howell has dedicated his life to protecting our community and has led with integrity, professionalism and heart,” she said. “We are grateful for his decades of service and leadership, and we wish him the very best in this next chapter.”
Assistant Chief Earnest Jones will serve as acting fire chief until an interim chief is formally appointed, the city announced. Flowers said in a Thursday article the interim chief will serve until a new permanent fire chief is selected through the search process.
“The City will soon begin the process of identifying the next Chief of the Pine Bluff Fire & Emergency Services Department who can build on the strong foundation laid by Chief Howell,” the release reads. “In the meantime, the department remains committed to serving our community with excellence and professionalism.”