Dolton Firefighters Protest Interim Chief's Qualifications, Safety Concerns

Union representatives say equipment issues and leadership controversy put community at risk

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:34am

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A dynamic, abstract painting of a firefighter's helmet in overlapping, fractured geometric shapes and vibrant colors, conveying the urgency and chaos of the firefighters' protest over safety and leadership issues in Dolton, Illinois.Dolton firefighters demand action on safety concerns and leadership issues that could endanger their community.Dolton Today

Firefighters in Dolton, Illinois, organized an informational picket on Monday to raise alarms about safety concerns in the village, including the appointment of interim Fire Chief Quention Curtis. The firefighters argue that Curtis, a retired Chicago firefighter, lacks the necessary certification and qualifications to lead the department, and has exceeded the 180-day limit set by the state for interim positions. Dolton residents also expressed concerns about Curtis at a village board meeting, while the union says some of their apparatus is not working and there is not enough equipment for firefighters on duty.

Why it matters

The firefighters' protest highlights ongoing tensions between the union and village leadership over public safety and the management of the fire department. The controversy over the interim fire chief's qualifications and the equipment issues could have serious implications for the community's emergency response capabilities.

The details

Dolton firefighters, represented by their union, organized the informational picket to shed light on what they claim are serious safety and liability concerns. Their primary worry is the appointment of interim Fire Chief Quention Curtis, who was selected by Dolton Mayor Jason House last October. The firefighters argue that Curtis, who did not rise through the ranks within Dolton, lacks the necessary certification and qualifications to lead the department. They also point out that Curtis has exceeded the 180-day limit set by the state for interim positions.

  • Dolton firefighters organized the informational picket on Monday, April 7, 2026.
  • Quention Curtis was appointed as interim Fire Chief by Dolton Mayor Jason House in October 2025.

The players

Quention Curtis

The interim Fire Chief of Dolton, Illinois, who is a retired Chicago firefighter and founder of the Black Fire Brigade. The Dolton firefighters argue that he lacks the necessary certification and qualifications to lead the department.

Jason House

The Mayor of Dolton, Illinois, who appointed Quention Curtis as the interim Fire Chief in October 2025.

Dolton Professional Firefighters Association

The union representing the firefighters in Dolton, Illinois, who organized the informational picket to raise concerns about safety and the leadership of the fire department.

Mary Avent

A Dolton resident who expressed concerns about Quention Curtis' appointment as interim Fire Chief at a village board meeting.

Ed Knoblock

A Dolton firefighter who spoke on behalf of the union, stating that the issues with the interim fire chief and equipment could put the community at risk.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Ed Knoblock, Dolton Firefighter

“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?”

— Mary Avent, Dolton Resident

“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.”

— Quention Curtis, Interim Fire Chief

What’s next

The Dolton Professional Firefighters Association has brought a lawsuit challenging the appointment of Quention Curtis as the interim fire chief. The village council says they will defend his appointment in court.

The takeaway

The ongoing dispute between the Dolton firefighters and village leadership over the interim fire chief's qualifications and equipment issues highlights the need for transparent and accountable leadership in the fire department to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. The outcome of the lawsuit could have significant implications for the management and oversight of the Dolton Fire Department.