Maplewood Chooses New Fire Chief

The Maplewood Township Committee has appointed Deputy Chief Michael Dingelstedt to be the new Fire Chief, according to a news release from the township on Monday.

Dingelstedt will replace A 31-year veteran of the Maplewood Fire Department, Dingelstedt recently was honored by the department for his service and for his role helping the families of injured or deceased firefighters to navigate the pension and benefit system.

When presenting the award, at the Dec. 5 township committee meeting, Capt. Joseph Callaghan called Dingelstedt a "source of strength to the families" and an emotional Dingelstadt said he was "proud to be a part of the Maplewood Fire Department family."

"We interviewed two Deputy Chiefs, both of whom were excellent candidates," said Mayor Vic DeLuca. "Chief Dingelstedt's varied experiences with fighting fires, handling administrative duties and being a union leader gave him the edge."

"Michael's a long serving and dedicated member of the Maplewood Fire Department and I am very happy for him, and for the town," said committeeman Jerry Ryan. "He was one of the people that helped lead the transition to Firefighters serving as part of our ambulance service, and knows what it means to go the extra mile for the residents of Maplewood."

Below is the entire text of the news release. Patch has reached out to Dingelstedt, Richardella and Mayor Vic DeLuca, and will update this story.

Deputy Fire Chief Michael R. Dingelstedt was chosen to be Maplewood’s next Fire Chief by the Maplewood Township Committee after the being interviewed on January 5, 2013.  Michael Dingelstedt, a 31 year veteran of the department, is currently serving as the Maplewood Fire Department’s Executive Officer and Fire Official. Michael Dingelstedt was appointed to the Fire department in October 1981. Michael Dingelstedt has served as a Firefighter /EMT and rose through the ranks and held multiple officer ranks until now being appointed Chief of the Department. Michael Dingelstedt has served on numerous committees over his tenure and has received awards for his kindness and appreciation for helping families in need. Some of the committees served have been the NJ Disaster Mental Health Response Team and a as peer counselor for the NJ Fire and EMS lifeline. Michael has also served as the editor for FMBA Bulletin from 1990 to 1998. Michael received schooling with numerous certifications while attending Essex County College and Jersey City State College were he has pursued his Fire Science Degree.  Michael Is married to his wife Nancy and has twin girls Kristin and Megan.  Michael Dingelstedt is well versed in the fire service and has dedicated his life to this career.

Maplewood Mayor Victor De Luca said that “The Township Committee is looking forward to working with Michael Dingelstedt and anticipates a smooth transition.“

The current Fire Chief Joseph Richardella will retire effective January 31, 2013 after serving as the Chief for four years.  Chief Richardella said that he “is excited about appointment of Deputy Chief Michael Dingelstedt as his replacement.”