It can be confusing for some to understand the distinction between a Fire District and a Fire Department.

Simply explained, think of a Fire District as a local government body, with the legal power as approved by the State Of New York, to tax residents in order to provide the facilities and equipment for fire services to the residents of a given community.

The Fire Department, on the other hand, is really the personnel required to provide the actual service of firefighting and Emergency Medical Services ( EMS).

Most volunteer fire departments within New York State operate under these guidelines.

The Stony Brook Fire District has a five (5) member Board of Fire Commissioners. They are elected by the voters within the boundaries of the Stony Brook Fire District for a five (5) year term of office. Elections for the position of one commissioner occur annually in the month Of December.

The overall goal of the Board of Fire Commissioners is to ensure that adequate firematic and rescue services are provided for the district residents with appropriate fiscal responsibilities. An annual budget is established and funds are raised through property taxes.

The Board of Fire Commissioners hold their open meetings at least once per month. Meetings are held at the fire house on Main Street.

Like all of the members of the Stony Brook Fire Department, the Board of Fire Commissioners serve their community as un-paid volunteers.