MONTICELLO, NY — The Sullivan County Emergency Services Training Center recently organized a training class for local fire commissioners with Greg Serio, an instructor from the Association of Fire Districts of the State of New York.

The class was attended by more than 50 local fire commissioners, several secretaries and treasurers, and some chiefs from Sullivan County, as well as a few from outside the county.

Fire departments answer to the board of commissioners, which approves their chiefs and assistants before they can assume office. The commissioners are obliged to use funds wisely and protect the taxpayer. The district can enter into contracts and create equipment and capital improvement funds and more.

The training class also covered municipal laws that govern commissioners, state and federal legislation, and updated OSHA rules. Sullivan County fire coordinator John Hauschild noted that this training is critical for fire commissioners to understand and perform their role.