Somers Fire Chief David Lenart.
Reminder Publishing submitted photo
SOMERS — On July 8, David Lenart officially began his role as fire chief for the town of Somers.
“It feels very good,” Lenart said. “I’m very honored. It’s a great group of members to work with. Everyone has been extremely helpful in getting me through my first week, learning the department and meeting the staff that are here.”
Lenart comes to Somers with a wealth of knowledge and has years of experience in fire and EMS services.
He served as a career firefighter for the Bridgeport Fire Department for many years, most recently serving as lieutenant on the Rescue Company.
He has also served Derby as a volunteer with both the Fire Department and the Storm Ambulance and Rescue Corps. Lenart was a chief for both those organizations.
Now, as the fire chief for Somers, Lenart oversees all the Fire Department operations along with being the fire marshal, responsible for inspections and investigations of any fires in town. He is also responsible for the department budgeting, staffing issues and the day-to-day operations of the Fire Department.
“We are excited to welcome Chief Lenart as the new leader of the Somers Fire Department,” said Lt. Ray Stovall of the Somers Fire Department. “We look forward to continuing an outstanding labored management relationship and welcome the opportunity to learn from his experience and education, especially in the area of technical rescue.”
He went on to say, “The Somers Fire Department is a unique entity and provides a wide range of skills and abilities to better serve the public need. In collaboration with Chief Lenart we look forward to continuing to meet the needs of our community.”
Like most people in his profession, Lenart enjoys helping people and since he grew up in this environment, it is normal for him.
Lenart’s grandfather and great-grandfather were fire chiefs. Then, his father was chief of Rescue Corps in Derby, along with his brother and himself that served as a chief at the same department, so he grew up in the volunteer firehouse.
“I have a unique experience to the fire service,” said Lenart. “I’ve spent time in command roles in both the biggest city in the state of Connecticut and the smallest city in Connecticut which has given me a serious variety of experiences. I’m looking forward to working with the staff and volunteers in Somers.”
