Board of Fire Commissioners

Governance and Responsibilities

Learn about the dedicated team overseeing the Mount Laurel Fire District #1, their funding sources, and their crucial responsibilities in ensuring community safety.

Commissioner Leadership

Meet the leaders who guide our fire district with integrity and commitment.

Funding Sources

Understand how our operations are funded and the financial stewardship in place.

Community Responsibilities

Explore the vital roles and duties our board fulfills to maintain public safety.

The department’s resources include three engines, two quints, two ladder trucks, one heavy rescue,
and a battalion chief/tour commander.

Headquarters/Birchfield Station 363

Fire Station 363 is located at 69 Elbo Lane and adjoins the MLFD Headquarters. It houses Engine 3631, Engine 3632, Ladder 3635, and Battalion 3603. As the first-due company to the center of town, its response area consists of mixed residential and commercial occupancies. It covers such areas as the Holiday Village retirement communities, Ramblewood Country Club, Buckeye Partners petroleum storage facility, and various commercial warehouse facilities.

Fellowship Station 362

Fire Station 362 is located at 3824 Church Road and houses Quint 3624 and Rescue 3639. Being situated near the Route 73 corridor, this company’s local primarily consists of hotels/motels, a mix of commercial structures including office buildings, car dealerships,
restaurants, and residential properties. This location provides easy access to both Interstate 295 and the New Jersey Turnpike (I-95). This company provides automatic mutual aid to Cherry Hill, Maple Shade, Moorestown, and Lenola.

Masonville Station 361

Fire Station 361 is located at 105 Masonville Road and houses Quint 3614, Foam 36, Brush Truck 3617, a 16’ v-hull rescue boat, and a 12’ inflatable rescue boat. As the first-due company on the east side of town, its response area has the most residential population compared to other locals in town. It covers such areas as the Centerton Square Shopping Center, the Rowan College at Burlington County (RCBC) campus, Roosevelt Paper Company, the 4N Service Plaza on the NJ Turnpike, a portion of the Rancocas State Park and Rancocas Creek, and many multiple dwelling structures consisting of townhomes and condominiums. This station provides automatic mutual aid to Willingboro, Hainesport, Moorestown, Westampton, Mount Holly, Lumberton, and Eastampton.

Staffing Structure

Mount Laurel Fire District #1

Mount Laurel Fire District #1 was created by ordinance of the Township Council in October 1983 in response to the filing of a petition by over 5% of the legal voters of record at that time.  Mount Laurel Fire District #1 is a taxing authority and uses property tax assessment as the primary source of funding for the operations of the Fire Department. Approximately 89% of all annual funding is derived from property taxes with the remaining 11% coming from inspection and permit fees, fines, interest, state grants and other miscellaneous sources.

The Board of Fire Commissioners (Board) governs the Mount Laurel Fire District #1 and consists of five Mount Laurel Township residents elected each November by the legal voters for three year terms.

The Mount Laurel Fire Department is composed of both career and volunteer personnel, ensuring comprehensive coverage and rapid response to emergencies. Career firefighters work in 24-hour shifts across three fire stations: Masonville, Fellowship, and Birchfield, each staffed around the clock. Volunteers supplement these efforts through in-house duty crews and on-call home response, providing additional depth and flexibility. Each fire station is manned by a supervisor, known as a company officer, and a minimum of three firefighters. This combination of career and volunteer staff allows the department to maintain high standards of service and efficiency.

Board of Commissioners

David Ridenour

Chairman

Rob Shestack

Vice Chairman

Phil Roura

Treasurer

John Cornue

Clerk

Kathleen Merly

Assistant Clerk

Office of the Fire Chief

Alan Pine

Chief of Department

Kyle Schippers

Deputy Fire Chief

Martin Gaynor

Deputy Fire Chief

Jennifer Dawson

Business Manager

Susan Lauria

Executive Assistant/Public Relations

Roman Lupan

Information Technology

Fire Prevention

Brian McVey

Fire Official

Bill Glassman

Asst Fire Marshal

Randy Johnson

Fire Inspector

Thomas Turi

Fire Inspector

Angelo Ventresca

Fire Inspector

Sarah Nawn

Clerical Staff

Financial and Business Matters

Administrative Responsibilities

The financial and business operations of the Mount Laurel Fire District are managed by the office of the fire chief. This role encompasses budget planning, financial reporting, and ensuring the fiscal health of the district.

The training division, led by a battalion chief, is responsible for the continuous education and preparedness of all fire department personnel. The training officer reports to the deputy fire chief, ensuring that our team is always ready to respond to emergencies efficiently and effectively.

Bureau of Fire Prevention

Ensuring Safety and Compliance

The bureau of fire prevention plays a crucial role in maintaining fire safety standards within Mount Laurel Township. Led by the fire marshal, the bureau includes an assistant fire marshal and two full-time civilian fire inspectors. These professionals are responsible for enforcing the New Jersey Uniform Fire Code, conducting annual inspections of approximately 5,500 businesses and buildings, and investigating fire code complaints. Additionally, the bureau ensures compliance with smoke alarm regulations during property transactions and conducts thorough fire investigations. Their efforts are vital in safeguarding the community and preventing fire-related incidents.

The fire marshal and designated inspectors are tasked with issuing permits, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations, and investigating all fire-related incidents. Their work includes inspecting commercial properties, residential units, and public buildings to ensure adherence to fire safety codes. The bureau’s commitment to rigorous inspections and proactive enforcement helps maintain a safe environment for all residents and businesses in Mount Laurel Township.

Get More Information

Embark on a fulfilling journey by becoming an active firefighter with the Mount Laurel Fire Department. Our department offers comprehensive training programs designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to serve our community effectively. You will have the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals, use advanced firefighting equipment, and make a significant impact on public safety. We are committed to recruiting dedicated individuals who are eager to learn and contribute to our mission. No prior experience is required—just a positive attitude and a willingness to serve. Join us and experience the camaraderie and sense of purpose that comes with being part of our team.

If you are interested in learning more about how you can become a firefighter with the Mount Laurel Fire Department, we encourage you to reach out to us. Our team is here to provide you with all the information you need to take the next step. Contact us at 856-234-6053 or email us at opportunities@mlfd.org. We look forward to welcoming you to our dedicated team.