Nichols Fire District
Serving and Protecting Nichols with Pride since 1917
Mission Statement
The Mission of the Nichols Fire District as it has been for the last 100 plus years is to protect and serve the citizens of Nichols and surrounding communities with superior fire suppression and rescue services.
It is our intent to supply fire education to our citizens AND their children with dedication and pride from our Fire Department members. Those Fire Department members receive continuous training, and are equipped with state of the art fire suppression and rescue equipment via the support from the Nichols Fire District taxpayers which allows us to continue this rich tradition.
Nichols Fire District Graduation Day - May 21, 2025
Eight members of the Nichols Fire Department attended the graduation ceremony of the Connecticut Fire Academy on May 21, 2025, to show support of Scott Detuzzi (center left) and John Kuroghlian (center right) who graduated after 15 weeks of training. Both have been volunteer members of NFD and will now start their paid careers at Stratford FD for Scott and Torrington FD for John.
We are all very proud!
Nichols Fire District Annual Meeting - May 13, 2025
The purpose of the Annual meeting is to approve the budget for 25/26, set the Mill Rate and elect 1 Commissioner and 1 Tax Collector.
The budget, that was just short of $1.3 million, was approved along with a .001270 Mill Rate.
This year’s meeting was held at Station 1 and we had 66 taxpayers attend.
Pat Freyer Commission Chair greeted all the taxpayers and MC ‘d the meeting.
- Treasurer Laurie Morano reported on the District’s finances.
- District Secretary Trish Mumbach read the minutes from last year’s meeting for approval by the audience
- Diane Olsen gave the Tax Collectors report with a collection rate of 98.62 percent!
- Chief Jason Mumbach reported on the activities of the Fire Department over the last year and commented on the thousands of hours of training done by the members as well as the constant search for new members.
- Commissioner Carmine DeFeo ran this year’s Elections where we had 1 candidate for Commissioner and 3 candidates for Tax Collector.
- Candidate Mike DeFeo introduced himself via video.
- Candidate Lynn LaRusso spoke on her qualifications.
- Candidate Kathy Gillis introduced herself to the audience with a detailed resume.
- Commissioner Patrick Freyer was re- elected as he was unopposed. He was later re – elected as Commission Chairman for 2025-2026 in the May Monthly meeting that was held AFTER the Annual Meeting.
- Candidate Kathy Gillis was elected as Tax Collector and will start July 1, 2025. She will replace Diane Olsen who has served as Tax Collector for 9 years and is retiring.
- Commissioner Mark Schroeder presented proposed changes to the By Laws. These changes included making the positions of Secretary, Treasurer and Tax Collector “appointed” positions rather than elected positions. The suggested change passed with more than a 2/3rds acceptance vote.
Thanks to all who attended.
NFD Awards Dinner Post Meeting - April 1, 2025
The post-NFD Awards meeting was held on April 1, 2025, providing an opportunity to present awards to those who were unable to attend the main ceremony. During the meeting, Chief Ray Franko was honored as Member of the Year, while Past Deputy Chief John DelVento received the Chief’s Award for his contributions to the Engine 305 Truck Committee. The evening also included special moments as Commissioner Patrick Freyer officially swore in Henry Smith as a Junior Firefighter and Kemal Rekovic as a Senior Firefighter, marking the start of their service with the department.
NFD Awards Dinner - March 29, 2025
The Nichols Fire Department held its annual awards dinner on March 29, 2025, at Pinewood Lake, celebrating the dedication and hard work of its members. Among the night’s honorees, Mike Duva was recognized with the Top Responder Award for his outstanding commitment, while John Debiase took home the Top Drill Attendee Award for his dedication to training. State Representative, David Rutigliano was on hand to present Chief Brian McGovern with a General Assembly Citation from the State of Connecticut, recognizing his honorable service to the community. The prestigious Chief’s Award was presented to Engineer Ryan Bogen for his exceptional contributions to the Engine 305 Truck Committee. It was a night of well-deserved recognition, camaraderie, and appreciation for the department’s dedication to serving the community.
Engine 305 Has Arrived - February 20, 2025
After years of planning, dedication, and unwavering community support, Nichols Fire Department proudly welcomes Engine 305 to its fleet!
The journey began when the purchase order was signed on December 21, 2021, with Seagrave Fire Apparatus, setting the wheels in motion for this state-of-the-art addition to our department. Today, on February 20, 2025, that vision has become a reality as Engine 305 officially arrives at Nichols Fire Department!
This new apparatus represents more than just cutting-edge firefighting technology—it symbolizes our commitment to protecting and serving the Nichols community. We extend our deepest gratitude to our residents for their steadfast support in making this purchase possible. Your investment in public safety ensures our firefighters have the tools they need to respond quickly and effectively.
A Team Effort
The arrival of Engine 305 wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of our dedicated team. Pictured below are some of the individuals who played a crucial role in bringing this project to life (from L to R):
Chief Jason Mumbach Commission Chairman Patrick Freyer Deputy Chief Robert Tomas (Truck Committee) Past Deputy Chief John DelVento (Truck Committee) Past Chief Ray Franko (Truck Committee Chairman) Commissioner Carmine DeFeo Engineer Ryan Bogen (Truck Committee)
(Missing from photo: Commissioner Mark Schroeder)
Engine 305 is now ready to serve the Nichols community with strength, reliability, and dedication—just like the firefighters who operate it. Stay tuned for more updates as we officially put this powerhouse into service!
Welcome home, Engine 305
NFD Promotions & Swearing In Ceremony - February 4, 2025
On February 4th, the Nichols Fire Department proudly welcomed Senior Firefighter Steve Lambrinakos and celebrated the promotions of Bill O’Keefe III to Captain and Joe Clark to Assistant Chief, Commissioner Mark Schroeder officiated the swearing-in ceremony, honoring their dedication and service to the community. Congratulations to all!
Commissioner Freyer Swears In Jr. Firefighter, Daniel Vindas - January 7, 2025
On January 7, 2025, Commissioner Patrick Freyer swears in 16 years old Junior Firefighter Daniel Vindas at the January 2025 Fire Department monthly meeting. In 2024, the Nichols Fire Department swore in eleven recruits for which we are very thankful.
Remember: Odd hours, No Pay, Cool Hats!
NFD's Engine 305 is Completed! - December 12, 2024
On December 21, 2021 Nichols Fire District issued a Purchase Order to Seagrave Fire Apparatus for a new pumper to replace our 41 year old Hahn pumper.
Today December 12, 2024, nearly 3 years later to the day, 6 members of the NFD travelled to Clintonville, Wisconsin for the final inspection of Engine 305. This new truck will soon be making it’s way east to Nichols. Pictured left to right: Seagrave salesman Joe Brefere, NFD Commissioner Patrick Freyer, NFD past Chief and Truck Committee Chairman Ray Franko, Deputy Chief Rob Tomas, Chief Jason Mumbach, Engineer Ryan Bogen and Past Assistant Chief John DelVento.
The Jingle Bell Run & The NIA Tree Lighting, December 8, 2024
On December 8, 2024, the Nichols Fire Deptment once again provided vehicles and manpower to support the NIA Jingle Bell Run. The event was a great success, contributing to the vibrant spirit of the community.
Also on December 8, 2024, the community gathered for the Annual Tree Lighting on the NIA Green, featuring a heartwarming musical performance by the Hillcrest Choraleers. The highlight of the evening was a visit from Santa courtesy of the NFD’s Ladder 304, who delighted children and adults alike with his festive cheer and holiday spirit. delivered
New Updates on the New Nichols Fire Department Engine 305
We are pleased to announce that as of November 17th, The new NFD pumper is taking shape! Stay tuned for more updates!
The Swearing In of Chief Jason Mumbach - November 5, 2024
On November 5, 2024, Commissioner Mark Schroder swears in the new Nichols Fire Department Chief Jason Mumbach, (r.) along with three new recruits. (Above l. to r.) Commissioner Chairman Patrick Freyer, newly appointed Fire Chief, Jason Mumbach, Commissioner Carmine DeFeo, newly sworn in firefighter, Connor Morin, newly sworn in firefighter, Shan Lupercio, newly sworn in firefighter, Brett Franko, Commissioner Mark Schroeder, Outgoing Chief, Brian McGovern.
Nichols Fire Department - Open House - October 6, 2024
NFD welcomed more than 500 Nichols Fire Taxpayers and their families to our annual open house held at Station 1 at 100 Shelton Road on Sunday October 6, 2024. Parents and their children were able to collect NFD fire hats, do color drawings related to fire prevention, learn how to use a fire extinguisher, try their skill working a real fire hose, crawl through our training building, witness the extinguishment of a car fire and a grill fire, learn CPR and the ever popular “touch a truck.” Participants were also able to enjoy hot dogs, donuts and apple cider. Thanks for coming! Hope you took a pumpkin home!
Update on the New Nichols Fire Dept Engine 305
We are pleased to announce that as of September 26th, there is lots of progress on the new NFD pumper! Stay tuned for more updates!
Work On Our New Truck Has Finally Begun!
On December 21, 2021 and, after a Special Meeting of the Nichols Fire taxpayers, a Purchase Order was sent to Seagrave Fire Apparatus of Clintonville WI to order a new Engine for our Station 1. The Pumper was due to be delivered in February of 2023. The Covid outbreak along with supply chain issues and manpower shortages have delayed delivery of this apparatus for many months. We were notified by Seagrave that production commenced on August 2, 2024 and we hope to see this much needed piece by this Thanksgiving.
Best Appearing Apparatus Trophies in 2024
Many members of the NFD Parade Committee have been hard at work
cleaning, polishing and detailing our Squad 309 that lives at Nichols Fire Station #2. As a result, Nichols has won 3 “Best Appearing Apparatus” trophies at parades in Thomaston, Bridgewater and Beacon Hose. The plan is to attend 1 more parade and hope to win the “State Championship Award “ for the 2024 Parade Season.
Pride in our ride!
NFD 309 Award Winner at Bridgewater Parade - August 16, 2024
On August 16, The Nichols Fire Department attended the Bridgewater Fire Department Fair and Parade. Squad 309 came home with its third “Best Appearing Apparatus” trophy this season! Thank you to the Bridgewater Fire Department for hosting another great night! Also congratulations to the other in town departments, Trumbull Center and Long Hill for each taking home trophies for the apparatus that they brought!
NFD Remembering Past NFD Members - May 24, 2024
As tradition has it, each year just prior to Memorial Day members of the Nichols Fire Department gather at The Nichols Village Cemetery and place flags next to the headstones of past NFD members.
Pictured (l. to r.) A/C Jason Mumbach, FF John Sheehan, Chief Brian McGovern, LT Matt Taormina, Past Commissioners, Rick Perochio, Len Szustak and Craig Thompson
NFD Annual Awards Ceremony - March 9, 2024
On March 9, 2024 Nichols Fire Department held it’s Annual Awards Dinner at the Waterview Banquet Hall in Monroe, Connecticut. Attendees included NFD members, their spouses, family, friends and significant others along with members of Trumbull Center Fire Department, Long Hill Fire Department and Trumbull EMS. The evening included a cocktail hour, dinner, build your own sundaes and was followed with the awards presentation and dancing. We share a few photos of the award recipients with a “thank you for your service” and a Congratulations to all!
NFD Brings Santa to the NIA Tree Lighting - December 8, 2023
Spirits were bright and merry at the NIA on Sunday night for the annual tree lighting. Santa was brought to the event complements of the NFD. It’s officially the holiday season now!
Pics courtesy of Kyle Norton Photography
NFDs Open House - October 8, 2023
Nichols Fire Department welcomes young and old at their Annual Open House on October 8, 2023.
WHERE WE're LOCATED
Founded in 1917, the Nichols Fire Department is one of three 100% all volunteer departments in the town of Trumbull, Connecticut. Operating out of two stations, we provide primary fire and rescue services to the Nichols Fire District along with assistance to the Trumbull Center and Long Hill Fire Departments. We also provide coverage to the surrounding communities and beyond.. We are dedicated to serving the Town of Trumbull and will continue to do so for years to come
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