The LaGrange City Council named LaGrange Fire Department Deputy John Brant as the sole finalist for the LFD’s chief position on Tuesday’s meeting.

Brant has served with the LFD for 23 years with 14 years of experience in a management position. Brant is taking over for LaGrange Public Safety Chief Lou Dekmar, who will remain chief of the LaGrange Police Department. Dekmar has served as chief for both departments for almost a decade and has done an admiral job as a leader in this community.

The job as Public Safety Chief had added responsibilities since Dekmar first accepted it, making it difficult for one person to do both. That’s the main reason the council explored hiring a fire chief.

Brant has the experience needed for the position, and we’re sure he’s going to do well in his new role. He was the initial media contact when four LaGrange firefighters were hospitalized after a Labor Day fire, and he handled a delicate situation well, keeping the community up to date on what was going on, while also looking out for the guys he spoke for.

We’re also glad to see that the city gave strong consideration to local candidates. Brant has been here, knows this community and will be able to step into the job on day one without needing a GPS to get around. We’re sure outside candidates applied and were qualified, but hiring from within always seems to boost morale and will keep some structure in place from Dekmar’s time leading the department.

Brant will formally be made the fire chief on Nov. 27.

Congratulations to Chief Brant. We look forward to working with you at the LFD.