Kenny Baier is the choice to replace Tim Ketchum as fire chief in Watseka. 

At the May 11 public safety committee, Alderwoman Monna Ulfers said several people had been considered and it was determined Baier would be the best choice. 

Ketchum announced in April he would be stepping down from the department after 24 years of service. That retirement is effective June 30. 

The public safety committee approved Baier as the new chief, a recommendation that will now go to the full council at the end of the month. The committee approved Baier 8-0. Alderman Michael Yates was absent from the meeting.