The City of LaGrange’s search for a new fire chief is nearing the finish line.

The city officially posted the job in August, and City Manager Meg Kelsey confirmed through email on Thursday morning that seven people have applied for the position. She said interviews will be set up for five of the applicants, although it was unclear when those interviews might begin.

“Although the timeline isn’t fixed, I anticipate filling the position within the next few weeks,” Kelsey said. 

Lou Dekmar currently serves as the City of LaGrange’s Public Safety Chief, meaning he oversees the LaGrange Police Department and LaGrange Fire Department. The LaGrange City Council first publicly discussed hiring a fire chief during its council retreat in March.

At that time, Dekmar said it made sense to separate the two positions back out. The city made the decision to hire a fire chief due to the growth in LPD and LFD, which have both added duties and employees over Dekmar’s 10 years in his dual role.