Middletown Township welcomes Mark Antoszewski as new Chief of Fire and Emergency Services

Under the warm glow of the Middletown Township municipal building, a significant moment unfolded as community leaders gathered for the Board of Supervisors meeting on February 21, 2023. The evening was marked by a ceremonial swearing-in of Mark Antoszewski as the new Chief of Fire and Emergency Services, a role that symbolizes a new chapter in the township's approach to fire safety and emergency response.

The meeting began with the township manager, Tuli Cools, highlighting the collaborative efforts that led to this pivotal moment. Over the past two years, the Board of Supervisors and four volunteer fire companies—Middletown, Parkland, Pendle, and William Penn—have worked diligently to assess and enhance fire services in the area. This initiative culminated in a strategic plan developed in 2022, which emphasized the need for a unified fire department that integrates both paid and volunteer firefighters.

Cools expressed gratitude for the hard work of interim director Don Harris and the dedication of all stakeholders involved in the recruitment process. The search for a new chief was extensive, involving a nationwide recruitment that attracted 20 qualified candidates. After a rigorous selection process, Antoszewski emerged as the unanimous choice, praised for his extensive experience and leadership in fire services.

Antoszewski, a veteran of the United States Air Force and former chief of a fire district in New Jersey, brings a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to professional development. His educational background includes a bachelor's degree in fire service and a master's degree, along with various certifications that underscore his expertise.

During his swearing-in, Antoszewski expressed his honor and privilege in accepting the role, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among all departments to create a cohesive fire service for the community. He acknowledged the trust placed in him and conveyed his eagerness to begin working with the team to enhance emergency services in Middletown Township.

As the meeting concluded, representatives from the fire companies joined Antoszewski and the Board for a group photo, symbolizing the unity and shared mission that will guide their efforts moving forward. The next Board of Supervisors meeting is scheduled for March 6, 2023, where further developments in the township's initiatives will be discussed.