Buffalo Grove fire chief to step down; Deputy chief named successor

Buffalo Grove Fire Chief Mike Baker will retire July 14 and Deputy Chief Lawrence “Larry” Kane will assume his post the next day.

“Chief Baker leaves behind a remarkable legacy by his unwavering commitment to public safety and commendable accomplishments throughout his career,” Village President Eric Smith said in an announcement of the retirement. “Buffalo Grove is home to the best fire and (emergency medical services) you can get, and that can be attributed to Chief Baker’s leadership and the incredible department he’s cultivated.”

Baker joined Buffalo Grove as deputy chief in 2013, after 34 years of in Hanover Park, Elgin and Streamwood. He was promoted to chief in 2015.

“I am immensely thankful for the support, camaraderie and opportunities for growth that I have experienced during my time here in Buffalo Grove,” he said in the announcement. “I especially want to extend my deepest gratitude to the residents of Buffalo Grove, as their support and trust is the foundation upon which we provide the highest level of medical, suppression and prevention services. Working for such a wonderful community has been the high point of my fire service career and I will be forever grateful.”

Under Baker’s leadership, the Buffalo Grove Fire Department became one of just 11 in Illinois to earn international accreditation, officials said.

Kane joined the Buffalo Grove department as deputy chief in 2022.

“I’m honored to serve as Buffalo Grove’s next fire chief, carrying forward a legacy of professionalism and commitment to community service,” he said.