Plainview Fire Captain David Sells Retires After 35 Years

Plainview City Council honors Sells' decades of service and contributions to the community.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

After 35 years with the Plainview Fire Department, Fire Captain David Sells was recognized by the Plainview City Council for his retirement. Sells, who also served as an EMT, was praised for his many contributions and achievements over his long career in public service.

Why it matters

Sells' retirement marks the end of an era, as he was one of the last remaining firefighters from when he first joined the department. His departure highlights the changing of the guard and the importance of honoring the service of long-tenured public employees who have dedicated their careers to protecting their communities.

The details

During the city council meeting, Mayor Charles Starnes read a proclamation in appreciation of Sells' service, noting that his retirement "will conclude a career of governmental service characterized by many notable contributions and achievements." Sells mentioned that Fire Chief Bobby Gipson is now the only other firefighter remaining from when Sells first started.

  • Sells officially retired on February 7, 2026.
  • The Plainview City Council meeting honoring Sells' retirement took place on February 24, 2026.

The players

David Sells

A 35-year veteran of the Plainview Fire Department who recently retired from his position as a fire captain and EMT.

Charles Starnes

The mayor of Plainview who read a proclamation honoring Sells' decades of service and contributions to the community.

Bobby Gipson

The fire chief of the Plainview Fire Department, who is now the only other firefighter remaining from when Sells first joined the department.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I came looking for a job and I found a career and a calling.”

— David Sells, Retiring Fire Captain (Plainview Herald)

“His retirement will conclude a career of governmental service characterized by many notable contributions and achievements.”

— Charles Starnes, Mayor (Plainview Herald)

What’s next

The Plainview Fire Department will now begin the process of finding a replacement for Sells' position as fire captain.

The takeaway

Sells' retirement after 35 years of dedicated service to the Plainview community is a testament to the importance of honoring the contributions of long-serving public employees. His departure marks the end of an era, but also highlights the need to ensure a smooth transition as the department welcomes new leadership.