Dolton Firefighters Rally for Safety Concerns and Question Quention Curtis’ Eligibility

Firefighters in Dolton, Illinois, took to the streets on Monday to voice their concerns about safety in the south suburbs.

The local firefighters have raised questions about the eligibility of the interim fire chief, among other pressing issues.

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Represented by their union, Dolton firefighters organized an informational picket, highlighting what they believe are significant safety and liability problems that could potentially endanger residents.

A central issue is the appointment of interim Fire Chief Quention Curtis, who was selected by Dolton Mayor Jason House last October. Firefighters argue that Curtis, who did not rise through Dolton’s ranks, lacks the necessary certification and is therefore not qualified to lead the department.

Furthermore, they assert that Curtis, a retired Chicago firefighter and founder of the Black Fire Brigade, has exceeded the 180-day limit set by the state for holding an interim position.

During Monday’s village board meeting, Dolton residents echoed these concerns, expressing worries that the situation could also jeopardize the safety of the firefighters themselves.

“These firemen worked for us with no contract, without pay. They supported this village. So, is this the kind of support we want to show them?” said Dolton resident Mary Avent.

Union representatives also say some of their apparatus is not working, and that there is not enough equipment for firefighters on duty. For instance, they say instead of eight working air packs, they are down to five, and there is one working engine.

“When you call 911, you trust the person in charge is trained, qualified and ready to made an informed decision under pressure. It not only a risk; it’s a liability,” said Dolton Firefighter Ed Knoblock.

A spokesperson for the village says this protest is not about safety; it is about the fact that overtime has been reduced by more than $30,000.

“This town is safe. That was a ruse. It’s irresponsible to put out, this town is unsafe, and talking about a certification that everybody admitted they don’t care about,” House said.

The village says Curtis is highly qualified and has worked to increase diversity in the department. Curtis says there is an effort to tarnish his reputation for trying to make the department run efficiently.

“These medals ain’t here for nothing. They’re not a showpiece. I actually did the work. I’m not new to this. I’m true to this,” Curtis said.

A lawsuit brought by the Dolton Professional Firefighters Association challenges the appointment of the interim fire chief. The village council says they will defend his appointment in court.