FD master firefighter honored at City Council meeting
July named Parks & Recreation Month in FD
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-Messenger photo by Kelli Bloomquist
Master Firefighter Timothy Pille, left, was honored by Fort Dodge Fire Chief Steve Hergenreter at Monday’s city council meeting for more than 33 years of service and many lives saved while on duty. Pille received a retirement proclamation and plaque from Mayor Matt Bemrich.

-Messenger photo by Kelli Bloomquist
Master Firefighter Timothy Pille, left, was honored by Fort Dodge Fire Chief Steve Hergenreter at Monday’s city council meeting for more than 33 years of service and many lives saved while on duty. Pille received a retirement proclamation and plaque from Mayor Matt Bemrich.
Master Firefighter Timothy Pille was honored with a proclamation of thanks from Mayor Matt Bemrich and Fire Chief Steve Hergenreter at Monday’s regular city council meeting. Pille is retiring after more than 33 years of service to the Fort Dodge Fire Department, having joined as a firefighter on June 24, 1991.
“(Pille’s) career is characterized by courage, dedication, and steadfast commitment to safety,” said Bemrich.
Pille received multiple commendations throughout his career, including awards for his role in fighting the Eilers Hotel fire on Feb. 3, 1994, where “his actions minimized loss of life and property.” He also was honored with the Fire Department’s Lifesaving Award for saving the life of a 68-year-old man in cardiac arrest in 2023. In his role as Master Firefighter, Pille also mentored and trained many firefighters.
“Tim has done so much in his career of 33 years,” said Hergenreter. “I’m very proud of everything you’ve done for us and for our community.”
Bemrich also proclaimed July as Parks and Recreation Month in Fort Dodge. Councilman Dave Flattery noted that it was a good month to do so as the pickleball courts have consistently been occupied throughout each day.
Also Monday, the council unanimously approved the first readings of measures to update the mechanical, fuel gas, electrical and plumbing codes. These codes are national and international code standards and are updated regularly to reflect the latest safety standards and technology as well as to align with the State of Iowa.
Brittney Hindman was also named to the Library Board of Trustees and will replace Kelly Hindman. Brittney Hindman’s term will expire June 30, 2029.