Sunday, January 19, 2025
Five Towns and the surrounding fire districts held commissioner elections on Dec. 10.
All but one local district saw unopposed races.
Fire commissioners are elected to serve fire districts — or political entities that provide fire protection and emergency response. The districts have a governing body, which control the budget.
The districts may incur indebtedness and require the levy of taxes.
Atlantic Beach Fire Rescue
Nathan Etrog ran unopposed and was re-elected.
Having served for two-terms and a member of fire rescue for 25 years, he sought a third consecutive term.
Etrog also serves as a village trustee, chairman of the Park Commission and captain of the Water Rescue Team.
Hewlett Bay Fire District
Dan Wesiner obtained his re-election to the Hewlett Bay Fire District.
He has served as commissioner for 25 years and as a volunteer firefighter for 46.
He ran unopposed for the five-year term.
Vincent Castagna ran unopposed for re-election, and secured the vote.
Residents voted on the purchase of a new engine, and it was passed.
Meadowmere Park Fire District
Six-year President for the Ladies Auxiliary and Juniors Program, Jennifer Carrero, ran unopposed for the five-year commissioner position and was elected.
Carrero has 19 years of teaching experience.
North Lawrence Fire District
Running unopposed was Pinchas Faska, he secured the re-election votes.
He has served since 2021 and is a former Air Force member. Faska is currently president of Bais Medrash of North Lawrence.
He also served as Boy Scout Troop 84’s leader and has his Eagle Scout.
Woodmere Fire District
Darren Moritz, a 13-year fire department member with 25 years of financial experience and law enforcement background defeated incumbent Ronna Rubenstein and challenger Deborah Kaminetzky-Oberstein.
Rubenstein is an accountant who served as an EMT for six years. She helped secure grant funding for ambulances and implemented safety enhancements including a flashing apparatus at the firehouse, while commissioner.
Deborah Kaminetzky-Oberstein is a technology project manager and former attorney.
