Politics
Kankakee, IL Mayor Names Pick for New Fire Chief
KANKAKEE, IL — A major leadership change could be coming to the Kankakee Fire Department in less than two weeks, as Mayor Christopher W. Curtis moves to appoint a new fire chief following the retireme
By Claire Benton · 2026-10-20T20:03:35.602Z
KANKAKEE, IL — A major leadership change could be coming to the Kankakee Fire Department in less than two weeks, as Mayor Christopher W. Curtis moves to appoint a new fire chief following the retirement of longtime department leader Bryan LaRoche.
According to an Oct. 15 announcement from the City of Kankakee, Curtis selected Garrick Kasper, a 30 year fire service veteran, to become the city's next fire chief, pending approval from the 14 member City Council .
The appointment was scheduled for consideration on the Monday, Oct. 19, City Council agenda. If approved, Kasper would assume the position Monday, Nov. 2.
New Fire Chief Brings 30 Years of Experience Kasper has spent more than 25 years with the Oak Forest Fire Department, including service as fire chief since October 2021.
His background includes emergency response, department operations, personnel management, training and budgeting.
He previously served in leadership positions as interim fire chief and deputy chief, with additional experience at fire departments in Otto Township, Flossmoor and Country Club Hills.
A Kankakee resident, Kasper was selected from 23 internal and external candidates.
“Garrick Kasper brings extensive experience in fire service leadership, department operations, and emergency response,” Curtis said.
Longtime Chief Retires After Years of Service The leadership transition follows the retirement of Chief Bryan LaRoche, who delayed his departure by eight weeks to help maintain continuity within the department.
Curtis thanked LaRoche for his service and commitment to Kankakee residents.
The city also announced that the deputy fire chief position will remain temporarily vacant while officials coordinate plans to fill the role.
The appointment represents an important leadership transition for the department responsible for fire protection and emergency response throughout Kankakee.