Buffalo Grove Fire Chief Baker set to retire in July

Buffalo Grove Fire Chief Mike Baker will retire in July after 45 years of service in the fire industry, officials said.

Baker, who joined the fire department in 2013 and was named Buffalo Grove chief in 2015, will retire July 14, the Village of Buffalo Grove announced in a news release.

Buffalo Grove Deputy Fire Chief Lawrence “Larry” Kane will succeed Baker on Monday, July 15, officials said.

“I am extremely grateful for the support, camaraderie and opportunities for growth I have experienced during my time here at Buffalo Grove,” Baker said in a press release. “I especially want to express my deepest gratitude to the residents of Buffalo Grove, as their support and trust is the foundation upon which we provide the highest level of medical, law enforcement and prevention services. Working for such a wonderful community has been the highlight of my firefighting career and I will be forever grateful.

Baker started as a firefighter/paramedic with the Hanover Park Fire Department in 1979 before joining the Elgin City Fire Department in 1985, officials said.

Over the years, Baker rose through the ranks to become interim fire chief, which he held from 2011 to 2012.

He joined the Buffalo Grove Fire Department in 2013 as deputy chief and was promoted to fire chief and director of the emergency management agency in 2015.

Village officials said firefighters are preparing for the next generation of fire and rescue service. The Department became one of 11 communities in Illinois to achieve international accreditation.

Kane, who joined the department in 2022, will lead significant initiatives including the upcoming reconstruction of Fire Station 25, while planning other facility improvements needed to modernize equipment and operations.

Kane began his career as a police officer before joining the Glenview Fire Department in 2001.

He joined Buffalo Grove as deputy chief in 2022, officials said.

His education includes a bachelor’s degree in fire science management from Southern Illinois University and a master’s degree in public safety administration from Lewis University.

“I am grateful for Chief Baker’s guidance and invaluable contributions to the department, and I am grateful to the Village Board, staff and firefighters for your trust and support,” Kane said. “I am honored to serve as Buffalo Grove’s next fire chief, continuing a legacy of professionalism and commitment to community service.”