Geneva Fire Chief Michael Antonelli to retire; deputy chief named successor

Geneva Fire Chief Michael Antonelli told the City Council on May 18 that he will retire after a firefighting career that spans 43 years and three decades serving Geneva. Antonelli said he first answered a newspaper ad in 1995 and described his tenure in Geneva as “the best job I’ve ever had,” adding gratitude for colleagues and residents and saying he looks forward to travel and personal projects in retirement.

The mayor brought forward the appointment of Deputy Chief Matt Lowes as the next fire chief, effective Aug. 15, 2026. The council moved and seconded the nomination and approved it by voice vote and subsequent acknowledgement by staff as unanimous. Lowes, who described a career beginning as paid-on-call firefighter in 1997 and previous service in other suburban departments, thanked the council and said he looks forward to leading the department and continuing relationships with city staff.

During the tribute, multiple council members offered brief remarks praising Antonelli’s leadership, noting safety initiatives, investments in firefighter safety and positive department performance under his tenure. Antonelli said he will participate in a 90-day transition to his successor and expressed confidence in the department’s future.

The council recognized both Antonelli and Lowes with applause; no formal policy action beyond the appointment vote was recorded.