Fredonia trustees approve one firefighter hire amid wider staffing and budget debate

The Village of Fredonia Board of Trustees on Feb. 5 approved the appointment of a full‑time firefighter and authorized payment for his basic training at the New York State Academy of Fire Science, while trustees and residents warned that police and fire staffing shortfalls and a budget deficit complicate further hires.

The board voted 4–1 to appoint Bryce Fisher as a full‑time firefighter effective Feb. 6 at $22.34 per hour with an 18‑month probationary term. The board later approved sending Fisher to the state academy at Montour Falls for a course that begins Feb. 10 and runs through May 22, at a cost of $3,326.

The decision follows multiple public comments urging the board to fill vacancies in emergency services. Doug Esherk, a resident, told trustees that “municipal leaders are obligated to provide health and safety services” and urged hiring for essential positions. Tyler Dallas, identified as president of the Fredonia Professional Firefighters IAFF (transcript: “Global 29 31”), said the department’s vacancy has lasted “nearly 4 months” and warned that chronic…