Orland Fire Commissioner Asks Board Why He Will Not Be Reappointed

ORLAND PARK, IL — One of three fire commissioners for the Orland Fire Protection District will not be reappointed to another term, according to the OPFD board. Now, Glenn Kraemer told trustees he wants to know why.

Kraemer has served on the Board of Fire Commissioners, an appointed position that reviews issues regarding firefighters, since 2018. Commissioners are given about $1,650 each year for their service.

According to him, he received a letter from the district last month which notified him that he would not be renewed for a second term followed by another letter that asked him to continue as a commissioner until the board can appoint a replacement.

"This decision was disappointing and quite a surprise with no previous discussion, announcement or appointment of a new commissioner by the Board of Trustees," Kraemer said during the public comment section of Tuesday's OFPD meeting.

Earlier this month, Kraemer told reporters in Richard Free Press he believes he was not reappointed due to political differences. At the meeting, trustees did not respond to Kraemer's public comment and later declined to comment further to Patch.

"Mr. Kraemer's term in office expired last year," a spokesman for the district wrote in an email. "The board is considering other appointments. It's a personnel matter and the board doesn't discuss personnel matters publicly."

Joshua Girdick, president of Orland Professional Firefighters Local 2754, spoke in support of Kraemer during the public comment portion as well, saying the 54-year-old has been an active participant in firefighter ceremonies and meetings.

Should the board decide to reappoint him, Kraemer said, he would continue to serve another term.