Fire Chief Picked For Western Springs

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL – The deputy chief of the Western Springs Fire Department for the last 3½ years was appointed this week to the top job.

Deputy Chief Brian Scott is set to become chief after Chief Mike Kelly retires Sept. 20. Kelly was chief for 4½ years.

In January 2021, Scott joined the Western Springs department after serving in the Evanston department for 21 years, the last four as chief. He started his career as a firefighter in 1994 in Hinsdale.

Since 2007, Scott has been an instructor at the Illinois Fire Service Institute.

The Village Board unanimously voted for Scott's appointment.

"He has had an enormous impact on operations and training here at the Western Springs Fire Department," Village Manager Ellen Baer said. "The deputy chief is extremely qualified and has a proven record of leadership both here in Western Springs as well as other outstanding departments he has served."

At the board meeting, officials recognized Kelly's service.