Elk Grove Village fire chief retires July 1

Elk Grove Village officials announced the resignation of Fire Chief David Miller after 38 years of service during Tuesday night's village board meeting.

Miller, who joined the Elk Grove Fire Department in 1973 as a firefighter/paramedic, rose up the ranks to the top firefighter post in June 2006. His last day with the department is July 1.

Over the years, Miller has implemented many innovative ideas and created numerous programs including the Citizen's Fire Academy, a preschool fire safety program, and the Community Emergency Response Team, preparing more than 100 volunteers to help serve the village during a crisis or planned community events.

Under his leadership, the fire department has been able to maintain a Class 2 ISO rating held by less than 1 percent of fire departments nationwide. The rating affects insurance premiums property owners pay on their homes and commercial buildings.

Miller also oversaw the renovation and remodeling of village fire stations and implemented an Automatic Response Agreement between Elk Grove Village and Arlington Heights to provide faster emergency response times to certain areas, Elk Grove Village Mayor Craig Johnson said.

“We truly appreciate Chief Miller honoring his commitment to the Elk Grove community,” Johnson said. “His enthusiasm and always positive attitude will be missed by all of us and we wish Dave nothing but the best during his retirement years.”

Johnson proclaimed July 1 as Fire Chief David Miller Day and presented Miller with a sign bearing his name and dates of service.

Miller choked up while acknowledging the support of the 99 shift and administrative fire department personnel who helped him accomplish so much during his tenure.

“Working in a positive team environment is truly fulfilling,” he said. “This is the best profession in the world and I still love coming to work. Time flies when you are having fun.”