Fire Marshal Stith resigns

Bandera County Fire Marshal John Stith recently submitted his letter of resignation, effective August 31, 2021.

“I’d like to give thanks to all the commissioners for supporting me as well as they’ve done and to the county residents who put their trust in me to promote safety in the county,” said Stith.

Stith, who plans to remain in the county as a retired citizen after spending 10 years in his position, says the decision comes with mixed emotions.

“It’s a love/hate thing. I’m happy, and I’m sad. I love my job. The people in Bandera County support me and law enforcement incredibly well. I’m gonna miss that,” he said. “I’ll still be around. I’ll just be in a different set of clothes.”

Replacing volunteer fire marshal Ralph Dresser in 2011, Stith said having a full time position gave him the ability to ramp up license inspections, mandate more code enforcement, investigate arson and meet all the needs of the county residents.

Stith emphasized his appreciation for the county’s volunteer fire departments.

“I very much appreciate the concern in how they do their job,” Stith said. “A bunch of guys who aren’t paid do a tremendous job and are of high value to the county. I can’t say enough about them.”