To my friends and neighbors,
On December 13, there will be an election held at Smithtown FD headquarters for the purpose of filling a vacated seat for commissioner. Voting will be between the hours of 4 – 9 PM.
I am writing to inform all of you that I will be running for that seat, and I hope to gain your support.
I have been a resident of Smithtown since 1970. After joining the Smithtown Fire Department in 1977, I have aspired to and held every line officers rank in my company and twice served terms as captain. In 1995, I was elected to the position of third assistant chief and worked my way up to Chief of Department in 2001 and completed my term in 2003. During my tenure in the chief’s office, I completed training in the areas of fire command, tactics and strategy, safety, and budget and finance. I was responsible for implementing the department’s health and safety program and authored the department’s operating guidelines - both which are still in use today.
In 2007, I was elected commissioner. During my term I dealt with safety issues, and with compliance to NFPA standards, all while maintaining fiscally responsible policies and practices. I worked with the board to see the Station 1 project through from concept to construction. I was also very proud to be a part of improving our ISO rating through equipment acquisitions and training which resulted in lower fire insurance premiums for the taxpayers.
Having worked in both offices, I consider myself very detail- oriented, and I understand the needs and operations of both the department and the district.
Thank you for considering me.
Joeseph Gardella