Rosemont restructures command staff in public safety department

Rosemont's public safety department is being restructured following the recent retirement of its longtime top cop.

Former Superintendent of Public Safety Donald E. Stephens II, who stepped down in February, oversaw a department that is responsible for providing both police and fire services throughout town. While there's only some 4,200 residents in Rosemont, the village is home to a bustling entertainment district, convention center, theater and arena.

Now his son, Donald E. Stephens III, takes over as head of the department, though he will retain his old title - chief of public safety. He was appointed to that position in 2006 when his grandfather, Rosemont founder Donald E. Stephens, was mayor.

Current Mayor Brad Stephens took over the reins in 2007 following his father's death.

Under the reorganization approved by the village board Wednesday, three deputy chiefs will report to Stephens III. Deputy Chief John Aichinger heads the Bureau of Administration; Deputy Chief Kevin Kukulka heads the Bureau of Patrol; and Deputy Chief William Schuster heads the Bureau of Fire Suppression.

The organizational structure follows with commanders, lieutenants, sergeants, public safety officers, civilian staff such as dispatchers, and auxiliary officers.

The department includes 80 full-time sworn officers and another 120 security specialists, often retired Rosemont officers who provide security at the Allstate Arena and Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

Stephens III said sworn personnel are cross-trained in police, fire and emergency medical services, though officers receive their assignments to either police or fire/EMS.

The new department leadership structure went into place May 1.

The department is headquartered at village hall, 9501 W. Devon Ave., and operates fire stations at 5800 River Road and 10073 Higgins Road.