Columbus looking for new fire chief

COLUMBUS, Miss. (AP) - Columbus Fire Chief Kenneth Moore will retire at the end of the month.

Mayor Robert Smith announced Moore’s retirement Monday. March 31 is Moore’s last day.

Smith says Assistant Chief Martin Andrews will be leading the department while Moore finishes up some vacation time.

Smith says he’ll recommend an interim chief at the April meeting of the city council.

Moore has served as chief for the past nine years. He has been with the department for 30 years.

During his tenure as chief, the city’s fire rating has been lowered from a 5 to a 4, lowering insurance premiums for city residents.