CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Champaign Fire Chief Andy Quarnstrom formally announced his retirement from the City of Champaign, effective July 14. Quarnstrom has dedicated nearly 28 years to the Champaign Fire Department, having joined the department in 1997 and rising through the ranks to become Fire Chief in February 2024.
Chief Quarnstrom thanked the City Council, City Manager, staff, fellow firefighters, and his family for their support. He reassured residents that the department remains strong and well-prepared to continue delivering high-quality service.
City Manager Joan Walls praised Quarnstrom’s commitment to the city. “Andy has dedicated his entire career to serving Champaign’s residents. His leadership, compassion, and community involvement will be greatly missed,” she said.
Throughout his career, Chief Quarnstrom led numerous key initiatives, including:
- Becoming the first Champaign firefighter in nearly 50 years to be promoted to Fire Chief
- Managing the department’s COVID-19 response
- Overseeing the remodeling of all Champaign fire stations
- Participating in the design of Ladder 164, now in service at Station 4
- Leading efforts to obtain life-saving Lucas automated chest compression systems
- Launching the department’s first internal fire academy, set for 2025
- Strengthening interagency collaboration with police and fellow fire professionals
Recruitment for a new Fire Chief will begin later this summer.