The Tahlequah City Council on Dec. 1 accepted the resignation and retirement of Fire Chief Casey Baker, with the departure set to take effect Jan. 31, 2026.

During the meeting, colleagues thanked Baker for a long career in local fire service and recounted his years of work. A council member said Baker has been on the city’s roster since 1992 and thanked him for his leadership. One speaker told Baker, “we appreciate all that you’ve done for this community.”

Baker addressed the council and community, saying it had been a pleasure working with city staff and neighbors. Councilors moved and seconded a motion to accept the retirement, and the motion carried by voice vote.

The council did not announce a timeline for selecting Baker’s successor during the meeting. The council’s formal acceptance of his resignation makes Jan. 31, 2026, Baker’s effective departure date.