New Berlin Names New Fire Chief

NEW BERLIN, WI—New Berlin Mayor Dave Ament and the Police and Fire Commission announced on Monday the appointment of Mark Polzin to the position of New Berlin Fire Chief at the Police and Fire Commission meeting on Nov. 17, according to a news release.

Polzin comes to New Berlin with over 26 years of fire experience with the Racine Fire Department.

Police and Fire Commission chairperson Richard T. Piontek said in the release, "Mark was the unanimous choice of the Commissioners, who collectively felt he had the experience, credentials and temperament to guide the New Berlin Fire Department into the next decade. Competition for fire service leadership talent in our region of the state is particularly keen right now and the City is indeed fortunate to attract such a well-qualified leader to join our public safety team."

"I am truly grateful and honored to be named Fire Chief for the City of New Berlin and work together with the women and men who proudly serve the community," Chief Polzin said in a release. "I look forward to continuing the outstanding work done by Chief Bertram and Interim Chief Gillard with a focus on a culture of excellence, continuous improvement, and strong relationships with the community and local stakeholders."

Polzin began his fire service career in 1992 as a participant in the Pleasant Prairie Fire and Rescue Department live-in program. In 1994, he was hired by the Racine Fire Department, where he most recently held the position of Division Chief of Fire Prevention. He brings experience in recruiting, training, safety management, strategic planning, department accreditation, and labor relations, the release said.

Polzin earned a bachelor's degree in fire science management from Southern Illinois University
and holds a master's degree in educational leadership from the University of Illinois at Springfield. Polzin is a graduate of the National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program.

“We are confident Chief Polzin will build upon the successes of former Chief Lloyd Bertram and elevate the traditions of service and professionalism that are the hallmarks of our City's Fire Department, “ said Mayor Dave Ament. “He joins a veteran team of assistant chiefs who have served our City without missing a beat during the protracted recruitment and selection process. We owe them all a debt of gratitude.”