Palatine Rural Fire chief retires

Longtime Palatine Rural Fire Protection District Chief Hank Clemmensen has retired as the district's top firefighter after 15 years on the job, according to a district news release.

In his time at the helm, Clemmensen worked with the Rolling Meadows and Palatine fire departments to create the "RPM Group," a partnership aimed at strengthening fire safety protection to area residents, improving firefighter safety and enhancing operational efficiency for the departments.

Before becoming chief, Clemmensen worked at the Glenview Rural Fire Protection District as a firefighter and the Hoffman Estates Fire Department as fire marshal and assistant chief.

The district will be recognizing Clemmensen at the regular meeting of the board of trustees 1 p.m. Monday, Aug. 8, at Station #36, 35 Ela Road in Inverness.

Rich May is currently serving as acting chief.