Incumbent unopposed in West Hempstead

West Hempstead Fire District Commissioner Scott Clark is running unopposed for a five-year term in the district’s Dec. 13 election. Voting takes place from 4-9 p.m. at the Fire Headquarters Building at 295 Hempstead Tpke., West Hempstead.

Clark was appointed to a vacant commissioner seat nearly three years ago, and won election for the remainder of the term. He is now seeking his first five-year term.

One of his priorities as commissioner is the purchase of a new tower ladder truck. Clark said the current truck is 20 years old, and with potential housing construction in West Hempstead, he said the fire district and department would be able to better serve the community with a new truck. “We would be able to effect high-rise rescues in a safer manner,” Clark said.

Clark will also continue to work to ensure the fire department has coverage around the clock. “We have hired a medic full-time and we are looking at bringing in a part-time medic in January to fill those tough hours when we’re a little sparse,” he said. “Volunteering used to be a second job, but now people need a second and third job to pay for their mortgage.”

A volunteer fireman with Hempstead for the past 27 years, Clark has served 13 years as a chief officer and 5 as a department officer. His son, Daniel, just finished his first year in the West Hempstead Fire Department.

“I am actually a fireman in Hempstead for 27 years, but I live in West Hempstead,” he said. “I love the company I’m in. I love everything I do. This is a way to give back to the community where I live. I enjoy what West Hempstead provides. I’m excited about having the opportunity to get back in and work with the other commissioners to continue to provide outstanding fire service that West Hempstead provides.”