Fire department elects officers, postpones fire guard project
Albany Fire Chief Joel Viertel was re-elected to a second term during the department’s annual officer election, which saw every position filled by unanimous vote—an outcome Viertel described as a sign of unity and strong leadership within the volunteer force.
Cyrena Wooster was re-elected as Secretary Treasurer, and Casey Kimbrough will continue serving as Second Captain. The only newly elected officer is Zack Waggoner, who was chosen as First Lieutenant and also named Firefighter of the Year in 2024. He steps into the role following the resignation of Ryan Walser.
“This was the smoothest officer election I’ve ever seen,” said Viertel, who has served eight years with the department, two as chief. “There was one nomination for each role, and every vote was unanimous. That kind of unity says a lot about where we are as a department.”
Viertel emphasized that leadership in the fire department isn’t about seniority or time served, but about trust, humility, and leading by example. “Being an officer means people are willing to follow your lead—not because you bark orders, but because you’ve earned their respect,” he said.
The Albany Volunteer Fire Department currently has 24 members, with 21 present for the April meeting. Officers are elected annually, with alternating positions up for vote each year. In even-numbered years, the department elects the Assistant Chief, First Captain, and Second Lieutenant.
Along with strong leadership, Viertel noted a renewed commitment to fire management planning, including a large-scale Fire Guard project involving local landowners. While recent rains and fuel growth have delayed the burn project until next winter, preliminary support from property owners signals progress. The department plans to revisit the initiative in December or January, once fuel curing conditions improve and wind forecasts allow for a safe burn schedule.
“This department is stronger than it’s ever been,” said Viertel. “From the fire line to the leadership table, we’re ready for whatever comes our way.”
