Public Safety Promotions Include Deputy Fire, Police Chiefs

Six separate swearing-in ceremonies were held at the Oct. 3 meeting to honor the promotions of three members of the and three from the .

Among them were the two second-highest ranking positions in both departments: deputy fire chief and deputy police chief.

After being promoted to captain in January 2011, Don Golubski, a 23-year veteran firefighter, became the second-in-command at the fire department after he was sworn in as deputy fire chief.

“I feel very blessed to have this opportunity; it has been one of my career goals and I am fortunate to have made it earlier than I expected,” said Golubski.

Another high-ranking promotion was former Lake Zurich Police Cmdr. Kevin Finlon, who was promoted to deputy police chief.

Finlon was hired in 1988 and previously served as a sergeant before becoming commander, a position he has held since 2005.

"I am honored to have this opportunity and I look forward to the new challenges associated with this assignment," Finlon said.      

Other police department promotions included Cmdr. Dave Anderson, who has been with the department since 1995. He previously served as a sergeant.

“I appreciate the opportunity afforded to me by the department,” Anderson said. “I look forward to the challenges ahead and will strive to elevate the professionalism my predecessors instilled within the organization.”

Former Detective Scott Warren was promoted to sergeant, and has served with the police department since 1986.

“I look forward to the challenges and opportunities of this new position. I believe becoming a sergeant will best allow me to serve the residents of Lake Zurich,” Warren said.

Two other promotions were given in the fire department. 

Former Lt. Mickey Wenzel rose in the ranks to shift captain, a position that will require him to transition to the day shift instead of working overnights as he has for the last 18 years.

“It’s very exciting to be moving up to be in charge of training and safety; it’s obviously a lot of responsibility, but it’s a challenge I am ready for,” Wenzel said.

Now a lieutenant, Joe Christopherson was promoted from firefighter/paramedic. He has more than 21 years in the fire service — the last 10 served in Lake Zurich and prior to that at the Cary fire department.

“I’m looking forward to starting the next chapter; I’m excited about the challenge ahead of me and I like the direction the department is taking,” Christopherson said. “I’ve had some great mentors.”