Schenectady names Matt Reinemann assistant fire chief; speakers cite staffing shortages and new capabilities

The Schenectady City Council recognized the promotion of Deputy Chief Matt Reinemann to assistant chief Monday evening during a ceremony at City Hall. Chief George Burns opened remarks and described promotions as important for department leadership amid staffing challenges. "We are faced with monumental staffing shortages with an ever increasing demand for service," the chief said, noting the need for innovation and new approaches. Mayor Gary R. McCarthy praised the department's standards and said, "There's no question in my mind that, Matt is going to lead this department. He's going to do great things and serve this city well." Reinemann thanked the mayor, the chief and the city and said he appreciated the trust placed in him. In remarks during the ceremony, Reinemann outlined capabilities and upgrades at the department, including two sets of turnout gear for personnel, a tactical EMS team that pairs paramedics with police for high-risk responses, a regional special-hazards team for hazmat and technical rescue, a drone team for search and scene assessment, and a lease program that improved apparatus reliability. He said the apparatus and gear improvements help address firefighter safety and operational readiness. Reinemann closed by promising support for department members: "As assistant chief, I'll have your backs always, and I'm looking forward to help you, continue the tradition of excellence that's we're known for here in the fire department." The event included a prayer and brief remarks from clergy and a mayoral congratulations; no formal council policy action or vote was recorded in the transcript for this ceremonial item.