Bellissimo, Field re-elected as fire commissioners

Voters in Wantagh and Seaford headed to the polls Tuesday night for fire commissioner elections—important but often overlooked local races that help shape emergency services and district budgets.

In Wantagh, Fire Captain Bradley Field ran unopposed and received to win a new five-year term. In Seaford, incumbent Fire Commissioner Silvio Bellissimo was also unchallenged. Both fire districts held their annual elections on Dec. 9, with new terms set to begin Jan. 1.

Though uncontested, these positions carry major responsibilities. Fire commissioners oversee multi-million-dollar budgets, set tax levies, and manage equipment purchases, staffing policies, and emergency response protocols in their districts.

The Seaford Fire District, established in 1924, provides financial oversight for the volunteer Seaford Fire Department, which offers fire protection, EMS and rescue services within its defined boundaries.

Wantagh’s fire district is among the largest in Nassau County, covering all of Wantagh and portions of Levittown, Seaford, East Meadow and Bellmore, along with Jones Beach State Park. The Wantagh Fire Department responds to a wide range of emergencies and maintains specialized teams, including a Hazardous Materials Unit and Dive/Water Rescue Team equipped with a 31-foot fire-rescue boat.