The Utica City Council voted unanimously Dec. 9 to appoint Assistant Chief Randy Plant as Utica Fire Chief effective Jan. 5, 2026, subject to legal review of his employment contract.

Mayor Gus Calandrino read a resolution recognizing Fire Chief Kevin Wilsack’s more than 40 years in public safety and 17 years leading the Utica Fire Department, thanking him for “unwavering dedication, professionalism and courage” as he approaches retirement on Jan. 4, 2026. County Commissioner Sylvia Bridal, a representative from Congressman John James’ office and a representative from State Rep. Ron Robinson’s office offered tributes at the meeting.

Plant thanked the mayor and council for their trust and said he looks forward to the challenge; he did not provide further remarks beyond expressing appreciation and promising to speak more at next month’s meeting. The council’s motion to appoint Plant was moved by O’Donnell and supported by Torenzi; the deputy clerk recorded a unanimous roll-call vote of approval.

Mayor Calandrino said he and Torenzi participated in interviews and that legal review of Plant’s contract is underway. The appointment is conditioned on that review; council did not discuss contract terms at the meeting. The personnel action will take effect on Jan. 5, 2026, unless otherwise modified during legal review.

The council also adopted a resolution commending Chief Wilsack for his career, which the mayor said included mentoring firefighters, advancing training and strengthening department preparedness. The resolution will be presented to Wilsack as a formal expression of the city’s appreciation.