Press Release

Ossenfort Appoints Jeff Kaczor Emergency Services Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 19, 2023
Contact: Morgan McClary, MMcClary@co.montgomery.ny.us; 518-774-9138

Ossenfort Appoints Jeff Kaczor Emergency Services Director

FONDA—Montgomery County Executive Matthew L. Ossenfort has appointed Jeffery Kaczor to serve as the county’s Director of Emergency Services. Kaczor will succeed Rick Sager, whose term expired at the end of 2022.

Kaczor takes the reins with decades of experience in emergency service, having been with the department for 12 years, including serving as the Deputy Director since 2019.

County Executive Ossenfort said, “I’m proud to name Jeffrey Kaczor Montgomery County’s Director of Emergency Services. Being there when an emergency strikes is one of our most difficult jobs in county government. Having worked with Jeff for many years I know he has the experience, understanding and leadership skills required to meet any crisis. I’m also confident he will ensure the department and its personnel remain well trained and equipped to respond to challenges.”

“We wish Rick all of the best in his future endeavors. His dedication to the community truly shined during the pandemic,” said Ossenfort. “We are grateful for the experience and service he brought to Montgomery County.”

"Having been involved in the fire service for many years, it’s an honor to be able to lead my friends and colleagues as I take on this new role. I want to thank County Executive Ossenfort for the trust he’s placed in me. Montgomery County is a tightknit community, and you always see the best of us when tragedy strikes,” said Kaczor. “Communications and team work are key to our success and I look forward to helping others ensure they are prepared when disaster strikes.”

“I would also like to take a moment to thank Rick Sager for his service and his mentorship,” said Kaczor. “We wish Rick well and know he will be enjoying time with his wife Concetta, children and grandchildren.”

A longstanding member of the county’s first responder community, Kaczor previously served as chief of the Rural Grove Fire Department where he remains an active member. He has been a part of Montgomery County Fire Investigators unit since 2011 and has been in charge of the county’s fire training efforts since 2014. He is also a Team Leader with the Critical Incident Stress Management Team. Kaczor has also worked as the county’s Stop DWI Coordinator.

“As the new director, I’m eager to work directly with everyone. I believe communication will be the key to our success. “I have a passion for emergency service and helping others and plan to work hard for our community and all the first responders in Montgomery County,” said Kaczor.

“We are excited to have Jeff take on the role of Emergency Services Director,” said Ossenfort “He is extremely passionate about fire service and I’m certain will excel in this new role.”