New York State
Association of Fire Chiefs

Providing Service to Those Who Serve

Director James E. Hare

Chief James E. Hare started with the Hilton Fire Department exploring program in 1974. He became a firefighter in 1975 and held the office of chief from 1996-1998. Hare also served as president of the department from 2014-2015.  He served as president of the Monroe County Fire Chiefs Association from 2007-2008. Additionally, Hare is a retired EMT and code enforcement official and served on the Monroe County Haz-Mat Team for 18 years. He has worked with youth in the Hilton Fire Department Explorer Program for 48 years and joined with the members of other Monroe County fire departments to create countywide training programs for youth in the fire service. Hare has been recognized by Monroe County and the Hilton Fire Department for his dedication to the fire service and was honored with two County Meritorious Awards – the first for dedication of service for work in fire prevention and leadership and the second for dedication of service with county youth programs. Hare has been a member of NYSAFC since 1983. He was appointed to the Annual Conference Committee Programs Sub-Committee in 2010, served as sergeant-at-arms, and most recently served on the Exhibits Sub-Committee. He has also actively supported the Government Affairs Committee. Hare was elected to the board of directors in 2016 and serves as a liaison to the Annual Conference and Fire Education Committees.