APMM Series: From Volunteer to Career: Evolving Fire Services in Northampton Township with Robert Pellegrino and Adam Selisker

PCC Local Time

In this episode, we delve into the evolving relationship between a Township Manager and a Fire Chief, focusing on transitioning from a volunteer to a career fire service.

This episode is a fascinating inside look at how a rural community that becomes a suburban one transitions from a volunteer to a full-time career fire service that includes volunteer fire.

Robert Pellegrino and Adam Selisker share their journey, highlighting the importance of trust, community engagement, and strategic leadership. From addressing funding challenges to building a resilient fire service, this episode offers valuable insights for municipal leaders and emergency service professionals. Discover how effective collaboration can transform community safety and resilience.

SHOWNOTES:

Visit Northampton Township website

Connect with Adam M. Selisker on LinkedIn

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TIMESTAMPS:

[00:00:00] Introduction and Background

• Nancy introduces the topic and the guests.

[00:01:22] Transitioning from Volunteer to Career Fire Service

• Robert and Adam discuss the initial challenges and steps in transitioning from a volunteer to a career fire service.

[00:04:34] Building a Working Relationship

• The importance of building a good working relationship between the Township Manager and the Fire Chief.
• How Robert and Adam established their working relationship.

[00:06:18] Addressing Funding and Manpower Issues

• Discussion on the funding challenges and solutions, including the federal SAFER grant.
• How they addressed the shortage of volunteers.

[00:08:06] Community Engagement

• Strategies for engaging the community and communicating the need for a paid fire service.
• Examples of successful community engagement efforts.

[00:13:14] Leadership and Trust

• The importance of mutual trust and support between the Township Manager and the Fire Chief.
• Advice for other managers and fire chiefs on building trust.

[00:17:55] Challenges and Solutions

• Ongoing challenges in maintaining a mix of volunteer and career firefighters.
• How they adapted and evolved their strategies over time.

[00:24:30] Impact on the Community

• Positive outcomes of the transition to a career fire service.
• Personal anecdotes highlighting the impact on community safety and resilience.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCE NOTES:

1933 ACT 69 SECOND CLASS TOWNSHIP CODE OF PENNSYLVANIA

SECTION 607. DUTIES OF SUPERVISORS.--THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS SHALL:

(1) BE CHARGED WITH THE GENERAL GOVERNANCE OF THE TOWNSHIP AND THE EXECUTION OF LEGISLATIVE, EXECUTIVE AND ADMINISTRATIVE POWERS IN ORDER TO ENSURE SOUND FISCAL MANAGEMENT AND TO SECURE THE HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE OF THE CITIZENS OF THE TOWNSHIP.