COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa (AP) — Council Bluffs is looking for a new fire chief for the first time in nearly two decades. The Daily Nonpareil reports that Alan Byers is retiring after 19 years as chief and 35 years as a firefighter. Byers says it’s time for someone else to have a chance to lead the department.

Longtime Council Bluffs Mayor Tom Hanafan praised Byers work as chief. Hanafan says Byers oversaw numerous improvements and growth in the department during his tenure.