DeKalb Fire Chief Peter Polarek is stepping down from the position he’s held for eight years.

He said he is resigning because he wants to return to his former position as captain.

“This request was made to fulfill my desires to return to the operation side of the fire department and allow me the opportunity to pursue some educational opportunities,” Polarek said in a statement to the press.

In December, Polarek delivered his letter of resignation to DeKalb City Manager Jim Connors.

“He said he wanted to step down to captain so he could pursue other ventures,” Connors said.

Polarek has served with the DeKalb Fire Department for 19 years.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve as the fire chief,” Polarek said in the statement. “During my service as fire chief, I have grown both personally and professionally.”

The prospect of returning to his former position does, however, excite Polarek.

“I look forward to serving the citizens of the City of DeKalb in my role as shift supervisor/captain,” he said.

The DeKalb City Council last week gave its approval to locate a replacement for Polarek. The position will be open to all qualified applicants, Connors said.

Applications already have been received from within the department and from surrounding areas. There also has been interest from applicants in other states, Connors said.

In an agreement with Connors and the City Council, Polarek will remain as fire chief until a replacement is found.