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Salem Lakes Fire Rescue swears in nine, reports full‑time staffing at 15 and closes chief recruitment
Summary
The fire chief swore in nine new members, said the department now has 15 full‑time firefighters and three command staff, and the fire commission recommended closing the external fire chief search after the current chief rescinded resignation.
The Salem Lakes Fire Rescue held a swearing‑in ceremony for nine new members and provided a staffing update to the Village Board.
Chief (identified in meeting as chief) told the board the department had completed an academy‑style training for the new members and called the occasion “a proud moment.” He said the department now has a full staff of 15 full‑time firefighters plus three command officers and that the department continues to recruit part‑time members.
The chief described the recent academy as “grueling” and said the new members represent “the next generation” of the department. Assistant Chief Mike Keske and Division Chief Jill Torres were credited in the meeting for organizing the training and academy.
On recruitment, the fire commission voted to accept Chief Carr’s rescission of his resignation and to recommend closing the external search; the board subsequently voted to formally close the recruitment and retain the chief. Trustees also heard that October is Fire Prevention Month and the department will engage in school and community outreach.
Why it matters: The board’s actions and the commission’s recommendation remove uncertainty about leadership and signal that the department has reached a staffing baseline while continuing to recruit part‑time help.
Ending: The board encouraged community engagement during Fire Prevention Month and the chief said the department will continue training and outreach.
