Following a robust recruitment process, the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is pleased to announce Jay Plato as the Town's new Fire Chief and Community Emergency Management Coordinator, effective October 24, 2022.
Jay has been with the Town since August 2014, starting as Building Inspector I and moving to Building Inspector II in January 2015. In May 2017, Jay joined the Fire and Emergency Service Department as the Fire Prevention and Public Education Officer. Jay was also a Volunteer Firefighter at Fire Station 2 (St. Davids). In 2020, Jay was promoted to Deputy Fire Chief – Community Risk Reduction. Most recently, he has been in an Acting Fire Chief role.
"Jay has been essential in overseeing fire prevention, fire and life safety education, fire investigation activities, managing municipal emergency management, and more," stated Lord Mayor Betty Disero. "His proven expertise will continue to make Jay an asset to the Corporation and Niagara-on-the-Lake community. Congratulations, Jay!"
Jay holds a Fire Service Executive Management Certificate from Humber College, numerous National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications, and a Diploma in Architectural Technology from Mohawk College.
"Jay has provided strategic direction and guidance in his Fire Chief (A) and Deputy Fire Chief roles," stated CAO Marnie Cluckie. "Jay has served as a senior leader, overseeing all Community Risk Reduction activities while leading more than 100 members through a transformational change of developing an organizational culture for the Town’s Fire and Emergency Services Department. In his time as a leader, he has helped to improve the Department and is constantly learning new ways to enhance processes and modernize service. I am confident that Jay's skillset, leadership and passion for community safety will make him an excellent Fire Chief for the Town."
Over the past few years, Jay has been pivotal in the Town’s COVID-response initiatives and emergency management efforts. He has also gained a wealth of knowledge surrounding continuous improvement methodologies and fire and emergency services optimization. With Jay's experience, skills, knowledge and leadership, the Town is confident he will exceed in his role as Fire Chief and Community Emergency Management Coordinator.
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Media contact:
Marah Minor, Community Engagement and Communications Coordinator
905-468-3266 | communications@notl.com