Buffalo Grove Fire Chief Mike Baker has announced his retirement after a 45-year career. His retirement takes effect July 14 at which time Deputy Chief Larry Kane will become the new fire chief.
Baker joined the Buffalo Grove Fire Department as Deputy Chief in 2013 and was promoted to Fire Chief in 2015.
“I am immensely thankful for the support, camaraderie and opportunities for growth that I have experienced during my time here in Buffalo Grove,” Baker said.
“I especially want to extend my deepest gratitude to the residents of Buffalo Grove, as their support and trust is the foundation upon which we provide the highest level of medical, suppression and prevention services. Working for such a wonderful community has been the highpoint of my fire service career and I will be forever grateful.”
His career began as a firefighter/paramedic in the Hanover Park Fire Department in 1979. Baker joined the City of Elgin Fire Department in 1985 as a Firefighter/Paramedic, and over the years rose through the ranks to Interim Fire Chief, which he served from 2011-2012. He joined the Buffalo Grove Fire Department in 2013 as Deputy Chief and was promoted to Fire Chief and Emergency Management Agency Director in 2015.
Beginning his career as a police officer before joining the Glenview Fire Department in 2001, Kane joined the Buffalo Grove Fire Department as Deputy Chief in 2022. He has a Bachelor's in Fire Science Management from Southern Illinois University and a Master's in Public Safety Administration from Lewis University.
“I’m grateful for Chief Baker’s guidance and invaluable contributions to the Department, and I’m grateful to Village Board, staff and firefighters for your trust and support,” Kane said. “I’m honored to serve as Buffalo Grove’s next fire chief, carrying forward a legacy of professionalism and commitment to community service.”
“Chief Baker is second to none in the fire service, his career has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and dedication to enhancing emergency management services Village Manager Dane Bragg said.
“Chief Baker leaves behind a remarkable legacy by his unwavering commitment to public safety and commendable accomplishments throughout his career,” Village President Eric Smith said.
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St. Pat’s enforcement set
The Buffalo Grove Police Department is teaming up with the Illinois State Police and Illinois Department of Transportation for a stepped-up traffic safety campaign from March 8 to 18 to remind motorists of the dangers of drunken driving.
“St. Patrick’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, and we anticipate alcohol consumption will increase throughout the weekend,” said Commander Tara Anderson. “We ask everyone to celebrate responsibly, starting with a plan for a sober ride home before you leave the house.”
In addition to looking for impaired drivers, the Buffalo Grove Police Department will be stepping up seat belt enforcement, particularly at night when seat belt usage rates are lowest. Speeding, distracted driving and all traffic laws will be strictly enforced.
The St. Patrick’s Day enforcement campaign is funded by federal traffic safety funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and administered by IDOT.
And finally, say Happy Birthday to…
The Village of Buffalo Grove which turns 66 on March 7th.
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And so you know…
Buffalo Grove News and Info, is independently produced by Buffalo Grove resident Stan Zoller. A longtime journalist and journalism educator, Zoller covers Buffalo Grove and monitors news and information about the village, its schools, park district and community events. Buffalo Grove News and Information is not affiliated with any municipal body. Zoller is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and the Chicago Headline Club.
