A Roslyn Highlands Fire Company representative proposed an increase in pension benefits for volunteer members at the Roslyn Harbor Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday, Sept. 25, following the board’s request at its July meeting for more detailed information.
Speaking before the board, Richard Tocci, a representative of the fire company, proposed raising the village’s contribution to the Length of Service Award Program, a state-authorized pension-like incentive for volunteer firefighters.
Tocci said the company is asking for monthly contributions to rise from $20 to $30 per member, with a service cap increase from 30 years to 50 years.
“This will help retain members and, believe me, hanging on to older members is very, very important,” Tocci told the board. “We’re not getting that many recruits anymore. The fire service has changed, there are more classes, more training nd more risks. We have to figure out a way to keep people on board.”
Tocci estimated the cost increase would be about $14 a year per taxpayer in Roslyn Harbor.
Mayor Sandy Quentzel said both Roslyn and Glenwood Landing fire districts are making similar requests of their municipalities, and he urged the board to consider the measure as part of its upcoming budget process.
Tocci said, Roslyn Highlands Fire Company currently has about 120 total members, with 10 to 12 now collecting benefits under LOSAP. The proposed change would allow volunteers to accrue benefits for up to 50 years of service.
Trustees did not vote on the proposal but said they would review the numbers and consider the request during executive session. “Yes” at this stage would not constitute a formal approval but be an agreement to pursue the option further as budget discussions continue, said Village Attorney Kevin Walsh.
The board approved a resolution setting the date for the village election on March 18. Quentzel said Trustee Abby Kurlender will not seek re-election, prompting discussion about potential new trustees and the value of recruiting candidates with prior village board experience.
Board members also discussed outreach efforts to new residents, including the creation of village-themed bumper stickers, following examples from other local communities.
The initiative aims to foster a sense of village pride and maintain better communication with residents through email lists and local updates, said Quentzel.
Quentzel said the board will discuss prices and present their findings to the board at a later date.
