Firefighters Demand Action: Dolton Village Erupts Over Safety Concerns & Leadership Controversy

Firefighters in Dolton, Illinois, took to the streets on Monday, raising alarms about safety concerns in the south suburbs.

The primary issue they highlighted was regarding the eligibility of the interim fire chief, among other pressing matters.

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Dolton firefighters, represented by their union, organized an informational picket to shed light on what they claim are serious safety and liability concerns that could endanger the local community.

Their primary worry is the appointment of interim Fire Chief Quention Curtis, who was selected by Dolton Mayor Jason House last October. The firefighters argue that Curtis, who did not rise through the ranks within Dolton, lacks the necessary certification and qualifications to lead the department.

Additionally, they point out that Curtis, a retired Chicago firefighter and founder of the Black Fire Brigade, has exceeded the 180-day limit set by the state for interim positions.

Dolton residents expressed their own concerns about Curtis at Monday’s village board meeting, saying these issues could also put firefighters at risk.

“These firemen worked for us with no contract, without pay. They supported this village. So, is this the kind of support we want to show them?” said Dolton resident Mary Avent.

Union representatives also say some of their apparatus is not working, and that there is not enough equipment for firefighters on duty. For instance, they say instead of eight working air packs, they are down to five, and there is one working engine.

“When you call 911, you trust the person in charge is trained, qualified and ready to made an informed decision under pressure. It not only a risk; it’s a liability,” said Dolton Firefighter Ed Knoblock.

A spokesperson for the village says this protest is not about safety; it is about the fact that overtime has been reduced by more than $30,000.

“This town is safe. That was a ruse. It’s irresponsible to put out, this town is unsafe, and talking about a certification that everybody admitted they don’t care about,” House said.

The village says Curtis is highly qualified and has worked to increase diversity in the department. Curtis says there is an effort to tarnish his reputation for trying to make the department run efficiently.

“These medals ain’t here for nothing. They’re not a showpiece. I actually did the work. I’m not new to this. I’m true to this,” Curtis said.

A lawsuit brought by the Dolton Professional Firefighters Association challenges the appointment of the interim fire chief. The village council says they will defend his appointment in court.