Wood River Fire Chief Retires After 21 Years

Wood River City Council Meeting

WOOD RIVER – Wood River Fire Chief Wade Stahlhut was recently honored for his 21 years of service with the department as he prepares for retirement.

Mayor Tom Stalcup presented the fire chief with with a plaque and Certificate of Recognition for his retirement at the June 15, 2026 City Council meeting, adding he leaves behind a well-trained department to protect the city.

“Your integrity, leadership, and commitment will leave a lasting impact on the city, the Fire Department, and the community,” Stalcup said. “We wish you continued success and happiness.”

Stahlhut thanked the members of his department and the City Council for their support over the years, expressing pride in the department’s accomplishments and optimism for its future.

“I’m very confident that under new leadership, we’re going to continue the success of the department,” Stahlhut said. “It’s with a heavy heart that I leave a little bit, but I know there’s great things ahead for the Fire Department.”

A full recording of the June 15, 2026 Wood River City Council meeting is available at the top of this story or on Riverbender.com/video.

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