Champaign Fire Chief announces retirement, set to become next Savoy Village Administrator

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) — Champaign Fire Chief Andy Quarnstrom announced his retirement on Wednesday. The nearly 28-year-veteran of the department will be stepping down July 14.

“It has been an honor to serve the residents of this wonderful community for the last 28 years,” said Quarnstrom. “I am grateful to have been given the opportunity to work alongside and lead the dedicated professionals who put their lives on the line in service to our community. I want to thank the City Council, the City Manager, City staff, the men and women of the Champaign Fire Department, and my family for their unwavering support. While this concludes my long career with the City of Champaign, I want to assure our residents that the Fire Department is well-trained and equipped to continue providing the same high level of protective services they have come to expect.”

Shortly after Champaign announced Quarnstrom's retirement, Savoy announced that he's set to become the next village administrator.

“I am pleased to announce that the Board of Trustees has unanimously confirmed my selection of Andrew Quarnstrom to serve as the next Village Administrator. After a deliberate search and competitive process, it was abundantly clear that Andy was the best candidate for the job”, said Village President John Brown.

Quarnstrom joined the fire department in 1997 and rose through the ranks until he was appointed fire chief February 2024.

The chief said he was particularly proud of managing the department's COVID-19 response team, updating fire stations, and leading the department's efforts to secure Lucas automated chest compression machines among other achievements.

“Andy has dedicated his entire career to serving Champaign’s residents," said City Manager Joan Walls. "He is a well-respected leader in the fire services field, and his vast knowledge, experience, and leadership skills will be missed. In addition to being a dedicated public servant, Andy’s commitment to volunteerism and support of countless community organizations shows his true love for our community. His caring and compassion have positively impacted the lives of Champaign’s residents, and I wish him the very best as he closes this chapter in his life and starts a new one.”

The city plans to recruit a new chief later this summer.