Three New Battalion Chiefs for Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District

Submitted by BCFPD

Two Barrington Fire Department lieutenants and a former Des Plaines deputy fire chief have been hired as battalion chiefs for the Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District (BCFPD).

Ron Eilken, Scott Motisi and Jeff Tress bring a combined 59 years of fire service experience to the District. As shift commanders, each will oversee one of the BCFPD’s three 24-hour shifts when the district begins independent operations on January 1.

“Throughout their respective careers, Jeff, Ron and Scott have continually honed their exemplary leadership skills,” said BCFPD Fire Chief/Administrator Jeff Swanson. “They have proven themselves as dedicated, motivated professionals who will make our residents proud. It is a privilege to welcome them to our department.”

“Our new Battalion Chiefs possess a deep knowledge of the District and the challenges posed by its blend of residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural properties,” said BCFPD President Tom Rowan. “All three have the knowledge and experience to ensure that we provide the highest levels of emergency services to those live and work in the District, as well as those who visit.”

Battalion Chief Ron Eilken

Battalion Chief Eilken comes to the BCFPD with 32 years of professional experience. He previously served as Des Plaines’ Deputy Fire Chief, a training officer with the Wheeling Fire Department, and as fire inspector in Lombard. He began his career as a firefighter/paramedic with the Deerfield Fire Department.

A district resident for 19 years, Eilken appreciates the opportunity to help the BCFPD begin its next chapter.

“For me, there is no other place I would rather serve. The district is my home,” he said. “I look forward to working with Chief Swanson and the board of trustees to build a world-class fire department what provides the exceptional service our residents deserve.”

Battalion Chief Scott Motisi

Battalion Chief Motisi joins the BCFPD after resigning from the Barrington Fire Department, where he served for 10 years and attained the rank of lieutenant. He began his career as a firefighter/paramedic with the southwest suburban Posen Fire Department.

“It is an honor and privilege to be able to continue serving district residents,” said Motisi. “I see this as a terrific opportunity to help build a new organization that is committed to protecting our residents and exceeding their expectations for service.”

Battalion Chief Jeff Tress

Battalion Chief Tress, another former lieutenant who resigned from the Barrington Fire Department, joins the BCFPD with almost 16 years of experience. He spent more than two years with the Long Grove Fire Protection District before moving to Barrington, where he served for 13 years.

Tress’ move to the BCFPD “has reinvigorated my career,” he said. “Playing a small role in the creation of a new fire department is a chance to do something that will stand the test of time.”

Eilken, Motisi and Tress have developed and implemented an intensive training program for the district’s new firefighter/paramedics. Since mid-November, all three have been leading daily training drills at the BCFPD’s two fire stations.

About BCFPD

Established in 1940, the Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District serves portions of Barrington Hills, South Barrington, Lake Barrington and Inverness; and portions of unincorporated Cook, Lake and McHenry Counties. The district currently purchases emergency fire and medical service from the Barrington Fire Department, through an intergovernmental agreement between the District and Village of Barrington. The agreement will expire on Dec. 31, 2013.

The board of trustees meets the third Monday of each month, 6:30 p.m., at the District’s Lake Barrington headquarters, 22222 N. Pepper R. For more information, visit www.bcfpd.org or call (224) 848-4800.