BELVIDERE — During a rigorous interview process, Fire Chief Al Hyser and Danny Contreras stepped outside City Hall and had a frank chat about why the fire department might need Contreras.
Belvidere has more than 25,000 residents and more than a third are Hispanic, but the city didn't have any firefighters who are fluent in Spanish.
Hyser cleared that hurdle today when he swore in the 28-year-old Contreras, who is fluent in Spanish, along with 30-year-old Ron Herman, who likes the city’s homey feel. Contreras is the city's first Hispanic firefighter.
Both are experienced firefighters and paramedics with special certifications and experience working with schoolchildren.
They had to meet qualifications that included polygraph tests, background checks and orientation.
Hyser said he felt fortunate when he realized in the later stages of Contreras’ application process that the applicant could speak Spanish.
“This is something that was just happened upon,” said Hyser, noting that the two will join a department of about 30 firefighters. Both Contreras and Herman will make about $47,000 in their first year, plus benefits.
More than 50 Belvidere firefighters, police officers, elected officials and the newbies’ family members packed City Council Chambers today for a swearing-in ceremony.
“I’m really proud of him,” said Alba Jones, Contreras’ older sister. “He’s making history.”
Some of Belvidere’s firefighters have been getting by with their high school Spanish-speaking skills, which they jokingly call “Spanglish.” Firefighter David Burdick is better than most, able to ask questions about pain and medical problems.
“We’re glad to have him,” Burdick said of Contreras.
Fire officials are hoping Contreras will be a good role model for young Hispanics. They hosted a reception of cake and coffee at the State Street fire station afterward. Several Hispanics from the high school were there.
So was Ed Gonzalez, a Belvidere fire and police commissioner who has lived in the city for two decades. He can speak Spanish and says there’s a real need for Spanish speakers in the community.
“I know it’s one person,” Gonzalez said of Contreras. “But that one person may save one person’s life or maybe more. Hopefully, this is just the beginning.”
Working in a community with a large Hispanic population is "awesome for me and the community,” Contreras said. “I’m just happy to be here. I hope you guys welcome me.”
Susan Vela: 815-987-1392; svela@rrstar.com; @susanvela
