Roselle appoints interim fire chief

Interim Chief Robert Tinucci took the reins of the Roselle Fire Protection District Wednesday, replacing retiring Chief Robert Gallas, who served the district for five years before retiring in late June.

Village officials said Tinucci, a retired chief of the Darien-Woodridge Fire Protection District, is the perfect pick to lead Roselle's fire district during its search for a permanent head.

"We were looking for someone who has experience and command and can help with our transition in recruiting a new chief," said Jeff O'Dell, Roselle village administrator. "He will allow our department to continue to operate in a manner residents expect."

Tinucci began his career with the Darien-Woodridge district as a part-time firefighter in 1974 until starting full-time in 1978. After serving in the roles of lieutenant, captain and assistant chief, he was appointed chief in 1991. He served in that role until he retired last July.

Since then, Tinucci has remained active in the fire service community working with the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association. He is also the past president of the DuPage County Fire Chiefs Association.

O'Dell said Tinucci will not be a candidate for the Roselle Fire Protection District's permanent chief, a post village officials hope to fill by November. The recruitment process will be regional, said O'Dell, and the village already has begun receiving resumes.