Carpentersville Fire Department news

The Carpentersville Fire Department is preparing for a major leadership transition as Chief John Skillman plans to retire this spring after 29 years of service. A lifelong resident of Carpentersville, Skillman has held various roles within the department, including deputy fire chief, battalion chief, and lieutenant, before being appointed chief nearly a year ago.

His departure marks the third leadership change in the department since long-time Chief John Schuldt retired in 2013. An external search is already underway to find a new chief, with GovHR USA assisting in identifying candidates who meet the village’s criteria. The position offers a salary range between $125,000 and $155,000, depending on experience.

In addition to the leadership shift, recent personnel changes have seen Deputy Chief Kevin Rynders removed from his role, which has now been “civilianized.” While the reasons for Rynders’ departure remain unclear, officials have not provided further details. Once a new chief is selected, the village will work closely with them to review the department’s structure, including the future of the deputy chief position.

Village officials are also looking to reduce overtime expenses, according to Kathy Lamkin, interim director of human resources. Meanwhile, Village President Ed Ritter emphasized the need for a leader who can bring stability and foster better relationships between the village and the International Association of Firefighters Local 4790.

Rooney noted that the ideal candidate should help heal past tensions and move forward with a positive outlook. Union President Rick Nieves acknowledged that while there were occasional disagreements with previous leaders, they always worked to resolve issues. However, he expressed concerns about the current situation, especially given the recent layoffs and ongoing challenges with staffing and budgeting.

Excerpts from the ChicagoTribune.com:

Local 4790 members of the International Association of Fire Fighters are reacting strongly to the planned layoff of two full-time firefighters in Carpentersville, set to take effect on April 22. The union had just begun contract negotiations when the news was announced, leading to frustration among members.

Union President Lt. Rick Nieves criticized the decision, stating that the union had made efforts to reduce overtime costs by agreeing to flexible scheduling. “We have put forth a good-faith effort, but the village chose to use it ineffectively,” he said in a statement. He also pointed out that the union does not control approved and budgeted overtime.

In 2014, the union and village officials agreed on a swing-shift system to address manpower shortages. At the time, the village promised that no full-time firefighters would be laid off during the collective bargaining agreement, which expired in 2016. In return, the union withdrew a grievance over previous layoffs.

Nieves claimed that the village recently opted out of the swing-shift arrangement just days before issuing layoff notices. This is the second time firefighters have made concessions to manage financial shortfalls, but Nieves argues that the burden should not fall entirely on the union.

He also highlighted that other village employees have received raises, while the fire department continues to face staffing challenges due to delayed replacements. A recent study commissioned by the village suggests the need for four firefighters at each of the three stations, but Nieves believes the community must work together to implement these recommendations.

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