Elgin's new fire chief to come from within ranks

Elgin will stay within its fire department's own ranks in determining who will replace now-retired Chief John Henrici.

Battalion Chief Terry Bruce and Capt. John Fahey have submitted their resumes to City Manager Sean Stegall in hopes of becoming head of the department, which operates seven fire houses and employs 130 firefighters and emergency personnel.

Initial interviews with the two candidates took place this month, with second interviews expected next week, Stegall said.

After announcing his intentions to retire in September, Henrici officially stepped down on Sunday after 24 years with the department and two separate stints as its chief. Assistant Chief Mike Baker, who didn't apply for the permanent chief position, will oversee day-to-day operations as interim chief until a successor is named.

Stegall, who makes the final decision on the appointment, said the city is staying within for its search, but would keep its options open to look elsewhere if needed. He said the city is looking for someone who has a proven record of leadership and will take a hands-on approach in dealing with tough issues.

“We want someone who is more interested in the work of the position than the title of the position,” Stegall said. “We don't have the luxury of ceremonial department heads.”

Bruce, who has spent most of his 32 years in fire service in Elgin, is one of the department's three battalion chiefs who serve as shift commanders and deal with daily operations.

He said his experiences on the department have prepared him for the what it now faces, such as maintaining the same response standards despite cuts in personnel.

“One of challenges we faced is still providing an excellent level of service given the tough economic times. I've seen the gamut of some of the (best and) worst. I think I'm the guy to do the job.”

Fahey, who has also spent most of his 25 years in fire service in Elgin, decided to not run for re-election to the Kane County Board after getting promoted recently from lieutenant to captain in the fire department. As captain, he oversees the department's station one.

While reserving comment about why he wants to become the next chief until a final decision is made, Fahey did point to his broad experiences in different parts of government. “I understand the big picture of government and how different departments have to go together. I kind of have a panoramic view, and I understand how the fire department fits into that view.”

Stegall said he'd like the new chief to be in place by the middle of January.