Lanson Russell donned a new uniform and a new patch on his left shoulder Monday, but the responsibilities that come with the designation on his sleeve are not new to him.

Russell began his new job as DeKalb fire chief Monday, concluding a five-month search for Pete Polarek’s replacement.

Polarek told city officials of his intent to resign as fire chief in January, citing his wishes to return to the operational side of the department as a captain, a position he held before being asked to head up the department.Polarek started his new position as interim assistant fire chief Monday, and will remain there until a replacement can be found.

Russell has visited DeKalb several times since city officials chose him for the position.

“I looked at the community and saw DeKalb as a vibrant and growing city,” he said. “The fire department is busy and active in the community.”

Russell previously acted as fire chief in Downers Grove, where in March 2001 the department joined the mere 43 other departments in the United States to be nationally accredited.

“We are very proud of it,” he said of the honor. “The process took more than two years.”

Linda Wiggins, DeKalb’s administrative services director, said the accreditation process is very intensive, and the recognition suggests the department is exceptionally well-prepared for any kind of emergency.

She added that the city is very happy to welcome Russell and has high expectations for him.

“He has a very strong background in fire services, as well as the management skills to oversee a fire department,” Wiggins said.

DeKalb officials received over 30 applications and selected Russell because of his lengthy fire service and extensive knowledge of department management. During his 38 years of service, Russell served as a volunteer firefighter in Peotone, where he later became chief of the department, before becoming fire chief in Villa Park.

He said the thought to get the DeKalb Fire Department in national accreditation compliance had crossed his mind, but he added he would rather focus on becoming more acquainted with the community and the department before undertaking any such projects.

Russell said he grew up in a rural area and likes the idea of living in DeKalb. He and his family intend to move to DeKalb within the next year.

“The idea of living in a college town adds some excitement and variety to the experience,” he said.

He said the first few weeks of his new job primarily will be spent gaining more knowledge about the department and its operations.