West Cook News

At the Dec. 12 Village of La Grange Board meeting, the board recognized some of the village's employees for their years of service.

“And the board does recognize that every day for our fire department, our police department, our public works,” Village President Mark Kuchler said, “There's something new. There's something different. No two days are like except all the time. Every day, day in and day out, these men and women come to work risking their lives for our benefit and really are always professional. So we appreciate everybody.”

Captain Jeff Behland of the La Grange Fire Department was recognized by the  board for reaching 25 years of service in the city. Behland began as a firefighter paramedic with the La Grange department in 1997 after serving in another municipal fire department. He was promoted to lieutenant in 2010 and as captain in 2016.

The board was told Behland has continued his education, adding to his certifications and expertise. He is a certified advanced firefighter, certified paramedic, a certified technician in roadway extrication and hazardous materials. He was also appointed to represent the department on the Employee Safety Committee for the last five years.

The village also marked the many of years of service from Fire Chief Terrance Vavra, who ages out of the department by Jan. 1 and so is retiring. The village issued a resolution of appreciation for Vavra’s long career in fire service and his leadership throughout the pandemic. The village also marked the appointment of its new interim fire chief: John Buckley.

The board will meet again at 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 10 at the Village Hall board room at 447 North Catherine Ave.