Roselle Honors Long-time Fire Chief Christopher Laba Upon His Retirement

Christopher Laba grew up in Roselle. He played sports here. He put down roots. And for the past 26 years, he served this community as Fire Chief and Acting Business Administrator. On Tuesday, July 1, 2026, Roselle said goodbye to one of its native sons.

Laba officially retired from the Roselle Fire Department after more than a quarter century of service. The borough held a retirement ceremony with his family, friends, councilmembers, and Mayor Donald Shaw in attendance. Attendees signed the shirt Laba wore for his last dispatch call, and the fire department presented him with a plaque honoring his service.

"His legacy of humility, integrity, and leadership will live on forever," Mayor Shaw said. "He set an example that the next generation of firefighters can build upon, and we thank him for that."

Laba's connection to Roselle runs deeper than his 26 years in the fire department. His family moved to the borough from Jersey City in the late 1970s when he was a boy. He has been part of this community for nearly 49 years. "I have been a part of Roselle since 1977, and it has been great," Laba said. "I grew up here, I played sports, and to be able to spend 49 years in the borough is truly remarkable. It was truly amazing."

What strikes those who know Laba is his humility. Even as the borough celebrated him—first at a council meeting where his replacement, Adrian Perez, was announced, and again at his retirement ceremony—Laba found ways to redirect attention. "It has been weird because I am not one for attention," he told TAPinto Roselle. "It was more about the guys that got promoted that night to replace me. I was more happy for them than my own retirement."

The retirement is bittersweet for Laba. For the first time in 26 years, he woke up Wednesday morning without having to report to the fire department. It is an adjustment he is still processing.

"To be honest, I'm scared," Laba quipped. "I have been a fireman longer than I have not been. I have no idea what I am doing on Wednesday morning when I don't have to go to work. It is exciting, but nerve-wracking at the same time. I'm sure my wife will find plenty of things for me to do."

Union County Life celebrates those who dedicate decades to public service and community leadership. Christopher Laba exemplifies the kind of steady, humble commitment that strengthens communities.

FAQ

Q: How long did Christopher Laba serve as Roselle Fire Chief?
A: Laba served as Fire Chief for 26 years. He also served as Acting Business Administrator for the borough.

Q: How long has Laba been connected to Roselle?
A: Laba has been part of Roselle since 1977, when his family moved to the borough from Jersey City. He grew up here and spent his entire adult life serving the community.

Q: Who is replacing Christopher Laba as Fire Chief?
A: Adrian Perez has been announced as the new Fire Chief of Roselle following Laba's retirement.

Q: What qualities did Mayor Shaw highlight in honoring Laba?
A: Mayor Shaw emphasized Laba's legacy of humility, integrity, and leadership, noting that he set an example for the next generation of firefighters.

Q: What is Laba's biggest concern about retirement?
A: Laba said he is apprehensive about adjusting to life outside the fire department. After 26 years as a firefighter, he said he has no idea what to do with his Wednesday mornings when he no longer has to report for duty.

Q: Where can I find more information about Roselle Fire Department leadership?
A: Contact the Roselle Borough government or Roselle Fire Department for information about department leadership and services.