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New fire chief in Waukegan (more)
In this week's Waukegan City Council meeting, something extraordinary unfolded as Lake County Circuit Court Judge George Bridges Sr. stood up to administer the oath of office to his own son, George Bridges Jr., who was set to take over as the new fire chief. The moment, which took place on October 5th, was met with a standing ovation from a packed audience of supporters and colleagues who had gathered to witness the transition as Ricco Farrell, the outgoing fire chief, officially retired.
Judge Bridges approached Mayor Wayne Motley and humbly requested permission to swear in his son, saying, "It would be my honor to do so." Motley, who had announced his decision last week after consulting with Farrell, agreed without hesitation. Farrell, who had recently shared his plans to step down to care for his aging parents, had provided Motley with a list of qualified candidates, but ultimately, it was Bridges' name that stood out.
During the meeting, Motley addressed concerns about potential bias in his decision-making process. "I want to make this absolutely clear," he stated firmly. "I chose George Bridges for three reasons only: his competence, his courage, and his unwavering commitment to Waukegan. These are qualities that cannot be ignored, regardless of who he happens to be."
Motley also responded to rumors circulating in the community, acknowledging whispers about nepotism and racial bias. "This appointment has nothing to do with race," he clarified. "George Bridges is eminently qualified for this role, and I've worked alongside his father, Judge Bridges, in the past. I know firsthand how deeply rooted their connection to this city runs."
Aldermen Cunningham and Moisio expressed their support for promoting internal talent, emphasizing the importance of having leaders who understand the unique challenges faced by the community. As the ceremony concluded, it was evident that the Bridges family's legacy of public service was set to continue, with George Bridges Jr. now poised to lead the Waukegan Fire Department into its next chapter.
In a world where trust in leadership is often tested, Motley's transparency and emphasis on meritocracy served as a reminder of the power of integrity. For many, this moment was not just about filling a vacancy; it was about ensuring that the right person was entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the future of Waukegan.