Lake Zurich Fire Chief John Malcolm retires

Lake Zurich Fire Chief John Malcolm has retired, the village announced Tuesday morning.

Malcolm was hired by the village in 2015 after beating out more than 40 applicants for the job. Malcolm spent the previous 29 years of his career in the Mount Prospect Fire Department and was named that department's fire chief in 2010.

Lake Zurich Mayor Tom Poynton wished Malcolm and his family the best in his retirement.

"He did everything he could to improve the fire department, to leave it in a better place than it was when he took it over," Poynton said. "He was a tireless advocate for the safety of the department personnel, the residents and businesses of Lake Zurich and surrounding communities."

Deputy Chief David Pilgard, who has worked in the Lake Zurich Fire Department for more than 32 years, has been appointed acting fire chief. Pilgard was named deputy chief two years ago, according to the village news release.

Village Manager Ray Keller said the village has not yet initiated a formal search process for a new fire chief.

"We appreciate his contributions to the village over the past five years," Keller said of Malcolm. "The fire department does an excellent job serving the community and I'm looking forward to them continuing to provide excellent service with ... Chief Pilgard."