Rock Island fire chief announces January retirment

ROCK ISLAND, Ill. (KWQC) - Rock Island Fire Chief Jeff Yerkey announced he will retire in January 2023.

Yerkey has served the fire department for 33 years, he has been chief since April 4, 2016. Yerkey also served as assistant city manager since July 2021.

“I began my career in 1990, and it has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the citizens of Rock Island for more than 33 years,” Yerkey said. “I have been blessed to work with the finest firefighters that anyone would be privileged to work beside; those in the past who mentored me, those in the present who continue to inspire me through their outstanding work, and those of the future who will continue to ensure this department can hold its own against any department anywhere. The dedication of our members in fulfilling the department’s mission of saving lives and protecting property is second to none. It has also been a privilege to work with so many dedicated and professional employees throughout all of our city departments, all of whom put tireless efforts into making our community better.”

Mayor Mike Thoms thanked Chief Yerkey for 33 years of exceptional service to the citizens of Rock Island.

“The City of Rock Island has a strong and stable fire department due to the hard work and leadership of Chief Yerkey,” Thoms said. “He will be greatly missed, but the example he has set will lay the groundwork for the next chief.”

According to city officials, City Manager Todd Thompson has started a search for the next fire chief to ensure a smooth transition occurs for the fire department.

“I want to thank Chief Yerkey for his years of service to the Rock Island community,” Thompson said. “He has provided tremendous leadership for our fire department and has been an important part of the city leadership team, including serving as assistant city manager. He will be missed, and I wish him and his family the very best in a well-deserved retirement.”