KANKAKEE, Illinois - City of Kankakee Fire Chief Bryan LaRoche announced this morning that he will be retiring from the City of Kankakee this fall. 

Chief LaRoche quoted "After 24 years of service to this great City, I leave with mixed emotions, but have decided to retire from my position as Fire Chief of the Kankakee Fire Department. My last day with the City of Kankakee will be September 7, 2026". 
Additionally Chief LaRoche commented that "Serving this department and our community has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities the City of Kankakee has given me and my family. As I prepare for this next chapter, I leave with many great experiences, lasting friendships, and memories that I will always cherish". 

Mayor Curtis commented "While I'm saddened to hear Chief LaRoche will be retiring from the City of Kankakee, I couldn't be more proud of the Chief and what he has accomplished for the City of Kankakee and for me personally. We have served together as Fire Chief and Mayor since I was first sworn in as Mayor in May 2021 and he has helped shape the future of the City of Kankakee Fire Department. Our relationship has grown from colleagues over the last 6+ years to one where he has become a friend forever and he will be missed as trusted leader and key part of my administration team". 

Under Chief LaRoche, the number of budgeted sworn fire fighters increased from 47 to 51. Additionally, Chief LaRoche modernized the departments fleet with the purchase of a new ambulance in 2022, a new pumper engine in 2026 and a new aerial ladder fire truck to be delivered in the fall of 2026. He was also responsible for implementing the innovative internship program to recruit, train, and promote a younger generation of future fire and EMS personal. 

The City of Kankakee will be developing a transition plan to ensure the continuity of operations within the Kankakee Fire Department over the next several weeks. Chief LaRoche has committed to work with the Mayor and the City Administration team over the next 95 days to make this transition as smooth as possible. 

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Download the Press Release - KANKAKEE FIRE CHIEF BRYAN LAROCHE ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT