New Battalion Chief and Fire Marshal Among Firefighters and Police Sworn-In

Galesburg-city-signGalesburg City Hall was full this morning, for the swearing in ceremony of one new police officer, one new firefighter, and two promotions within the fire department. Among those was new Battalion Chief Randy Hovind, who will double as Fire Marshal. Hovind, who began with the Galesburg Fire Department in 1999, was promoted to Captain in 2010.

This was the second time he applied for the position. Battalion Chief Brad Stevenson commented that Hovind had tested for various multiple times over the years, and that he “persevered” when he didn’t succeed right away.

Hovind tells WGIL, that it felt good to earn this one.

“It was a long process, it feels good, it feels good. I don’t think it’s, like, sunk in yet,” says Hovind. “It’s kind of like you set yourself for some goals and then once you finally realize them, now you’ve got to start doing the work.

Hovind says “he’ll see what the future brings,” in regard to advancing after this. He will take over for the outgoing Dan Foley.

GFD also promoted Matthew Cain. He will become a Captain. A new firefighter, Nicholas Walters, was also officially hired by the department today. Walters is a native of Evergreen Park, Illinois, and has served the last seven years in Northern Virginia.

Finally Galesburg Police welcomed a new patrol officer.  Jared Tapscott will rejoin Galesburg PD after working in multiple roles throughout the area since 2000. Tapscott brings 15 years of experience to the force. He is a native of Sherrard.

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