FCAM Newsletter: September 2025

Smoke Detector / Lithium Ion Batteries Press Conferences-
In 2015, the Massachusetts building code required hard-wired smoke detectors for newly constructed or renovated homes. However, changes implemented in December 2016 specifically addressed battery-powered models in older homes, allowing and encouraging sealed, 10-year lithium-ion battery smoke alarms. As we approach the 10-year window, rendering many of these detectors inoperable and exceeding their life span, the Fire Chiefs Association wants to provide updates and information to the Chiefs and public on proper disposal of these units.

Lithium-ion batteries pose fire and explosion risks if damaged, can release toxic chemicals into the environment, and waste valuable resources when not recycled. To dispose of them safely, the public needs to understand that they should not put them in regular trash or recycling bins. Instead, those batteries should be taken to designated battery recycling or household hazardous waste (HHW) collection points, which are often located at retail stores or local government sites.

To help disseminate this information to the public, FCAM has partnered with the Department of Fire Services and will conduct three press conferences across the state to communicate this information effectively. Those press conferences will be at the Westborough Fire Headquarters on 10/7 at 10:00 AM, the Brockton Fire Department Headquarters on 10/9 at 10:00 AM, and the Easthampton Fire Department Headquarters on 10/29 at 1:00 PM. All Chiefs are encouraged to attend, and the uniform for this event is a Class A uniform with cover.

Municipal Budgeting-
In Massachusetts cities with a strong-mayor form of government, the city council can only reduce or reject items in the mayor’s proposed budget, not increase them or add new ones. This authority is defined by Massachusetts General Law Chapter 44, Section 32. As municipal budgeting continues to face financial challenges across the Commonwealth, many communities and departments are looking for alternative funding sources or mechanisms to help increase their budgets.

One such method is for communities to adopt Chapter 329 of the Acts of 1987. Chapter 329 of the Acts of 1987 is known as “An Act Increasing Local Control Over the Annual School Budget,” and it amended M.G.L. c. 44, sec. 32 to allow a city council to increase the school budget beyond the mayor’s recommendation by a two-thirds vote, provided the increase was requested by the school committee and didn’t exceed Proposition 2½ levy limits. This change gives cities the option to implement greater local control by allowing the city council to increase school funding, but requires a two-thirds vote and adherence to tax limitations. 

So, how could this impact your organization? There are many layers and interpretations to this law, depending on whether you speak with the Massachusetts Department of Local Services (DLS) or your town/city counsel, however, any additional funds appropriated for schools could be cut from your budget. Conversations may revolve around not cutting other department budgets and only taking the funding from reserve accounts. Depending on your city charter, this may not be allowed, and many times any request for funds coming from reserves needs to be initiated by the Chief Elected Officer and then voted on by the legislative body. If a Chief Elected Officer has already established a budget, and a community has adopted this provision of MGL to allow the city council to increase the school budget, most likely the Chief Elected Official will not initiate any additional funding from reserves, and the city council would have to cut the funding from other town/city departments.

This is by no means legal advice, and everyone is encouraged to speak with their legal team if this situation arises. This is to provide a broad overview and perspective, and share information as these situations occur in other communities. Please be aware and informed of your entire community budgeting process, as adoption of these laws could have significant negative impacts on public safety funding.

Respectfully,

Christopher Norris, PhD
2nd Vice President

Fire Chief / Emergency Manager
City of Easthampton, MA

Calling all Chiefs: Join FCAM Leadership and Fire Marshal Davine at one of three press conferences for smoke detectors and lithium-ion batteries.

Chiefs from each area are asked to support the press conferences in Class A, with covers. 

FCAM Members encouraged to attend I.A.F.C. New England Division Annual Membership Meeting, October 30 to vote for Chief Peter J. Burke Jr., Hyannis Fire Department for Internation Director of the IAFC N.E. Division

LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR CHIEF PETER BURKE
Candidate for IAFC New England Division – International Director

Dear New England Fire Service Leaders,

The future of our fire service demands strong, forward-thinking leadership — grounded in experience, built on collaboration, and driven by a clear vision for progress. It’s in that spirit that we, the Fire Chiefs of Massachusetts (FCAM), proudly express our unified support for Chief Peter Burke of the Hyannis Fire Department in his candidacy for International Director of the IAFC’s New England Division.

At our March 19, 2025 General Membership Meeting at Stonehill College, FCAM voted to endorse Chief Burke for this critical leadership role. Our endorsement reflects not only our confidence in his capabilities, but our shared belief that his leadership will benefit the entire New England fire service community.

Chief Burke is no stranger to leadership, innovation, or service. He has consistently demonstrated his dedication to our profession through his work as a Past President of FCAM, his active roles on the IAFC Technology Council and Communications Committee, and his continued efforts to promote impactful initiatives like the New England Technology Symposium and the Health & Wellness Summit.

Across Massachusetts and throughout the New England states, Chief Burke has built enduring partnerships, fostered innovation, and worked tirelessly to elevate the voices and needs of our departments. His understanding of the operational, legislative, and technological challenges facing today’s fire service makes him exceptionally qualified to represent our region on the international stage.

This is a pivotal moment for New England. As we work together to address issues like recruitment and retention, health and safety, technological integration, and national advocacy, we need someone who has walked the walk, knows the terrain, and is ready to lead with integrity and inclusiveness.

We urge you to join us in supporting Chief Peter Burke and to make your voice count by attending the upcoming IAFC New England Division Annual Membership Meeting.

Please review a list of questions that one should consider asking when considering a clinician.