Volpe named new Fire Chief for Aurora, Newmarket

Long-time Deputy Fire Chief Rocco Volpe is now at the helm of Central York Fire Services.

Volpe's appointment as Fire Chief was announced Monday by the Towns of Aurora and Newmarket, the two communities the Central York Fire Services (CYFS) serve.

The newly-minted Chief Volpe joined the CYFS in 2015 and led the department's Organization and Support Services divisions and has served as Acting Chief of the CYFS since December of last year, following the sudden passing of Chief Ian Laing in November 2023.

His 25 years of experience were hailed by both Towns and the Joint Council Committee, which is comprised of Aurora and Newmarket Council members and staff tasked with overseeing the department.

“We are proud of the very high level of service CYFS provides our community and I know Chief Volpe will work exceptionally hard to continue to keep our residents safe,” said Mayor Mrakas in a statement. “On behalf of Aurora Town Council, I'd like to congratulate Chief Volpe and I look forward to working closely with him to continue strengthening CYFS and the services they provide.”

Added Newmarket Mayor John Taylor: “On behalf of Newmarket Council, I'd like to thank Chief Rocco Volpe on the strong leadership he's provided to the department over the past nine years as Deputy Chief and particularly this past year as Acting Chief. I look forward to seeing his continued leadership and innovation as he moves forward as our new Fire Chief.”

Volpe comes to the role with a Masters Certificate in Municipal Leadership from York University's Schulich School of Business, diplomas in Fire Service Administration & Fire Service Leadership from Dalhousie University, among other achievements, and currently serves on the Boards of the York Region branch of St. John's Ambulance and the York Fire Chiefs Association.

“I am excited about the opportunity to bring my background and vision to Central York Fire Services and to lead the department in delivering exceptional service,” said Chief Volpe in a statement. “It's an honour to serve my community and I look forward to doing so alongside staff and with the support of our Joint Council Committee and Newmarket and Aurora Councils.”

By Brock Weir