Word Removed from Elmhurst Fire Chief's Title

ELMHURST, IL – Bill Anaszewicz has been at the helm of the Elmhurst Fire Department as its acting chief for a year and a half.

On Monday, the City Council voted for Anaszewicz to take the job on a permanent basis.

Late last month, City Manager Jim Grabowski recommended Anaszewicz as the chief.

Anaszewicz has 29 years of experience as a firefighter, 26 of them in Elmhurst.

"Clearly, you have the experience, education and leadership skills to lead our fire department," Mayor Scott Levin said at the council meeting. "I've personally come to know you, Bill, and how dedicated you are not only to our fire department, but you have a love and an appreciation for Elmhurst, which means a lot to our community."

The mayor added, "We're going to take something away from you that will make you happy. That is the word 'acting' from your title."

The council voted unanimously for Anaszewicz as chief. Aldermen Jennifer Veremis, Michael Honquest and Noel Talluto were absent.

Levin said he was sure the trio would have joined the others in support of the chief.

In May 2021, Anaszewicz was appointed acting chief upon the retirement of Fire Chief Tom Freeman.

Last month, interim Police Chief Michael McLean was named chief, three months after the death of Chief Michael Ruth.