At the City Council Meeting on Monday, October 3, 2022, City Manager Jim Grabowski will seek City Councils’ approval for his recommendation in appointing Acting Fire Chief, William (Bill) Anaszewicz to Chief of the Elmhurst Fire Department.
Chief Anaszewicz has more than 29 years working in the fire service, 26 of which he has served the City of Elmhurst. He joined the Elmhurst Fire Department in 1997 after working for the Village of Burnham Fire Department. He holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Anna Maria College, a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Science Management from Southern Illinois University, and an Associate’s Degree in Applied Science from South Suburban College. Chief Anaszewicz is also involved with several professional organizations including the DuPage County Fire Chiefs Association (Vice President) and MABAS Division 12 (President). Anaszewicz serves as a member to the Elmhurst Fire Department Strategic Planning Committee, the Illinois Society of Fire Service Instructors, and the Illinois Fire Chiefs Scholarship Fundraising Committee.
“Bill has been a dedicated leader and valued department expert to the City of Elmhurst,” states City Manager, Jim Grabowski. “I am confident that as Chief, he will continue to lead our firefighters in providing high quality fire protection and emergency medical treatment services to our community.”
During his tenure with the City of Elmhurst, Chief Anaszewicz has served in various leadership roles, raising up the ranks as Lieutenant from 2004-2010, Battalion Chief from 2010-2012, Deputy Fire Chief from 2012 – 2021, and Acting Fire Chief from 2021-2022. Along with his extensive background in fire service management and cadet training, Anaszewicz’s leadership roles include strategic planning, budget development, contract negotiations, and labor management. He serves as the lead advisory to the City on national, federal, and state mandated and recommended firefighting trainings and educational requirements.
“We are excited and grateful that Bill will officially step into the role as Fire Chief,” states Mayor Scott Levin. “Along with his love for the City of Elmhurst and his deep connection to our community, he has the ability to move our organization forward with his visionary leadership and tireless commitment to providing the highest level of emergency safety services.”
The City Council will vote on the City Manager’s recommendation at the October 3rd City Council meeting. Once the approval is voted on, Chief Anaszewicz will take the Fire Chief’s Oath of Office.
“I have a great sense of pride in serving Elmhurst, and am honored to have the opportunity to lead our outstanding team in this role.” states Anaszewicz. “My dedication and focus will be to ensure that our team carries out our mission in providing exceptional service to the community we serve.”