VIDEO/PHOTO: Rockford Fire Chief Michele Pankow was given the key to the city Monday evening at a City Hall meeting. After speaking about Pankowโs achievements and giving her a thank-you plaque for her service, Mayor Tom McNamara presented her with a key to the city wrapped in faux gold.
Pankow said a few words while holding back tears, which was followed by applause. Her last day as fire chief is July 9. Brian Carlson will step into the role as interim fire chief. Pankow is the first woman to serve as Rockfordโs fire chief and will be the first woman to serve as Illinois State Fire Marshal. She is expected to begin her role with the state in the coming weeks.
