Change is coming to the Hoboken Fire Department, as Mayor Ravi Bhalla, Public Safety Director Ken Ferrante, and Fire Chief Anton Peskens this week announced changes to the Department’s Table of Organization which is designed to bring enhanced leadership, add more firefighters, and improve efficiency.
The updates to the Table of Organization come following the City Council’s approval to reinstate a deputy fire chief position, in place of two captain positions.
The reorganization also authorizes four new firefighter positions within the Table of Organization, adding one member to each shift. A press release states this will strengthen the department’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, while improving safety for both residents and firefighters. No current captains will lose their positions as a result of this change due to existing vacancies in that role.
The changes, which would establish a total of 34 captains and 90 firefighters, are expected to save the Fire Department, and the City, approximately $120,000.
Mayor Bhalla stated, “This reorganization will help our Fire Department operate even more efficiently, while also strengthening and supporting Department leadership. I am grateful to the City Council for their partnership, and to our firefighters for their continued dedication to keeping Hoboken safe.”
“This change creates a stronger Hoboken Fire Department and positions it for continued success,” said Director Ferrante. “Reinstituting a deputy chief will improve oversight, structure, and response capabilities, while enhancing public safety across Hoboken.”
“I look forward to welcoming four new firefighters to our ranks to carry forward the proud traditions and high standards our department is known for,” said Chief Anton Peskens. “I’m grateful for the continued support of the community, the administration, and the City Council, and humbled by their ongoing recognition of the dedication of every member of HFD, no matter the rank.”
The changes increase the total number of Hoboken Fire Department members by three, bringing the department’s staffing to 135, up from 115 just four years ago.