Former Vernon Hills police chief to serve interim role in Highland Park

Mark Fleischhauer, who retired in June after 17 years as police chief in Vernon Hills, has been named interim police chief in Highland Park. Fleischhauer starts Thursday and will serve until Jan. 5, although the term can be extended to June 1. He also will assist in the recruitment process as the city undertakes a national search for a new chief to replace Paul Shafer, who is retiring. Fleischhauer will be paid $98 per hour and $147 per hour beyond 40 hours in a given week. Fleischhauer has 40 years experience including serving as deputy chief in Palatine.