UTICA, N.Y. — The Maynard Volunteer Fire Department marked several milestones Thursday with the unveiling of a new EMS response vehicle, the dedication of a 100-foot tower ladder in memory of the late Thomas P. Phelps and recognition of Past Chief Jared Pearl for decades of service.
The event was announced by the office of Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon. According to the office, the department’s newly purchased 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe will serve as its EMS 1 vehicle. Buttenschon’s office said state grant funding she helped secure supported the purchase.
New EMS vehicle added to department fleet
The new Chevrolet Tahoe is intended to support emergency medical response operations. Volunteer fire departments often use multipurpose response vehicles to move personnel, medical equipment and command resources to calls where a full fire apparatus may not be needed.
The announcement did not provide a detailed breakdown of the vehicle’s total purchase price or the exact grant amount applied to the purchase.
Tower ladder dedicated to Thomas P. Phelps
Department leaders also dedicated a new 100-foot Sutphen tower ladder apparatus in memory of Thomas P. Phelps, who served the department as a commissioner and firefighter.
The event included members of the Phelps family and Maynard Fire Department leadership, according to photos and information distributed with the release.
Past Chief Jared Pearl honored
The department also recognized Past Chief Jared Pearl for 34 years of service with the Maynard Volunteer Fire Department, according to the release.
Volunteer departments remain central to local emergency response
Volunteer fire departments provide much of the fire and emergency coverage across suburban and rural parts of New York. Their work depends on trained volunteers, dependable apparatus, protective gear, communications systems and reliable funding.
New equipment can carry a high price tag, which is why departments frequently rely on a mix of local funding, fundraising and state or federal grants.
Buttenschon’s official Assembly webpage identifies her as the representative for the 119th Assembly District and shows that her office has been involved in legislation and funding related to volunteer firefighters and emergency services.
A ceremony centered on service
The Maynard event brought together three themes: new equipment, remembrance and recognition. The EMS vehicle expands the department’s response capacity. The tower ladder dedication honors a longtime firefighter and commissioner. And Pearl’s recognition highlights the long-term commitment required to keep a volunteer department operating.
Source: Oct. 2, 2026, press release from the Office of Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon, with supporting information from the New York State Assembly member directory.
