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Waukegan Fire Department news
In recent updates from the Chicago Tribune, Waukegan officials are stepping up their recruitment game for new police officers and firefighters. To attract a more diverse pool of candidates, recruiters have been dispatched to local technical schools and churches, and informational booths have been set up at community events. The mayor has even taken to both English and Spanish radio stations to spread the word. This proactive approach stems from longstanding concerns voiced by community activists and local leaders about the underrepresentation of minorities—particularly Black and Latino individuals—in the city's police and fire departments.
Currently, Waukegan's police force of 150 officers includes 18% Hispanics and 7% African Americans, while the fire department, with 120 employees, has only six Black members and three Hispanic ones. These figures starkly contrast with the city's demographics, where 53.4% identify as Hispanic and 19.2% as Black, according to 2010 census data.
Mayor Wayne Motley, who served as a police sergeant for 26 years before taking office, emphasized the importance of diversifying these departments. He highlighted that the mediation process with the Department of Justice and organizations like the NAACP and the Latino Advisory Committee underscored the urgency of this issue. A major concern has been the negative perception held by many in the Black community regarding the police department, prompting ongoing efforts to rebuild trust.
Deputy Police Chief Mark Stevenson and Fire Chief George Bridges Jr. are optimistic about the broader impact of these recruitment drives. They’re aiming not just to diversify the departments but also to engage with youth through initiatives like the Waukegan Explorer Post, which encourages young people aged 15 to 21 to consider careers in firefighting and emergency services. Additionally, there's a special focus on encouraging women to join the ranks, with current staffing including five women in the fire department and 16 in the police department, representing various ethnic backgrounds.
To further enhance diversity, the city is adjusting its hiring process. While state laws dictate much of the selection criteria based on exams and veteran status, Waukegan is prioritizing local applicants, especially graduates of Waukegan High School. They’ve also removed the preference for college graduates, recognizing that a college degree isn’t necessary for entry-level roles.
Despite these efforts, the ultimate success remains uncertain, as acknowledged by Fire Chief Bridges. Mayor Motley expressed confidence in their outreach, stating that they've done everything possible to ensure the community knows about the upcoming tests. Applications for the fire department are open until August 5th, while the police department will accept them until September 1st. More details are available on the city’s official website, waukeganil.gov.
This initiative reflects a significant commitment to change, but time will tell if these measures can truly bridge the gap and create a workforce that mirrors the city’s population.