The Vestal Fire District is a political subdivision of the State of New York, encompassing approximately 53 square miles within the boundaries of the Town of Vestal. The Fire District operates under the governance of the Board of Fire Commissioners.
Our organization consists of three interconnected entities: the Fire District, the Fire Department, and the Fire Companies.
The Board of Fire Commissioners is responsible for providing the necessary apparatus, facilities, and equipment to support the Fire Department in safeguarding life and property within the District. The Commissioners are authorized to levy taxes to fund these efforts. While the Fire District’s budget is not subject to voter approval, the Commissioners are required by State law to adhere to a specific formula when preparing the budget, which includes a spending limitation.
The Board of Fire Commissioners holds public meetings on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the Vestal Fire Department, Station #3, located at 2164 Owego Road.
For more information about the organizations within the Vestal Fire District, click here.
Why Now?
Historically, the fire district was governed by the Town Board of Vestal. However, as the town grew and state regulations evolved, it became increasingly difficult for the Town Board to manage the fire district alongside its other responsibilities. In response to this, most towns have established independent governance structures for their fire districts, with Vestal being the last in New York State to make this change.
This new governance model will ensure continued fiscal responsibility, maintain high standards of fire protection and public safety, and support the effective management of equipment for our fully volunteer membership. Additionally, it will enhance adherence to state financial regulations. While efforts to separate the fire district from the town have been made throughout the past century, the successful transition was finally achieved in 2024, following thousands of hours of dedicated work by volunteers who recognized the pressing need for change.
Fire Commissioners
- Thomas McCartney II, Chair
- Marisa Butler, Fire District Treasurer
- Susan Bowen, Fire District Secretary
- Paige Willes-Brown, Director of Purchasing
- Ronald Birdsall
- David Harrington
- Daniel Kirchheimer
- Mark Tomko