Fire Chief Leaves Evanston For Position with Northwestern

EVANSTON, IL - Evanston Fire Chief Greg Klaiber will become the director of emergency management at Northwestern University after announcing his retirement from the city on Wednesday.

Klaiber's retirement will go into effect on Sept. 14.

“I’ve had an incredible 31-year career with the Evanston Fire Department; it’s a bittersweet feeling knowing it’s coming to an end,” Klaiber said. “It has been a true honor to work for the City of Evanston for the last 31 plus years. I truly appreciate how our residents, elected officials and City staff support their Fire Department. I have had the privilege to lead the men and women of the Evanston Fire Department over the last six years. I marvel at their professionalism and the work they do each and every day. I will miss it very much."

City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz described Klaiber as an "outstanding" fire chief.

“He has served the Evanston community with distinction his entire career," Bobkiewicz said. "His understanding of the neighborhoods that make up the City of Evanston has contributed to the very community-focused agency the Evanston Fire Department has become."

Klaiber has been with the Evanston Fire Department for 31 years, having served as chief since 2006. Prior to his time as chief, he has been a firefighter/paramedic, captain, division chief and deputy chief.