Falfurrias, Rockford Fire Departments Name Interim Chiefs Amid Leadership Changes

Ruben Ramirez, a 20-year veteran firefighter and former fire chief in Falfurrias, has been appointed interim city administrator by city councilors, stepping into the role to address community needs after initially declining. Ramirez emphasized his deep ties to the community and his commitment to prioritizing residents, aiming to overcome previous political issues, such as disputes involving broken fire hydrants. Meanwhile, in Rockford, Illinois, Division Chief Brian Carlson has been named interim fire chief effective July 9, following the departure of Chief Michele Pankow, who was appointed Illinois State Fire Marshal by Governor JB Pritzker. Carlson, with 27 years in the Rockford Fire Department and current responsibility for administrative functions, cannot apply for the permanent chief role due to commission rules. The Rockford Fire and Police Commission will conduct a search for a permanent fire chief while maintaining transparency with the community. Both appointments highlight transitions in fire department leadership aimed at maintaining stability and addressing organizational and community priorities.