Mamdani Appoints Lillian Bonsignore to Head FDNY

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Mamdani Appoints Lillian Bonsignore to Head FDNY

Former emergency medical services chief Lillian Bonsignore has been appointed by Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani to lead the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) as its commissioner. Bonsignore’s appointment marks a historic moment as she becomes both the second woman and the first uniformed woman to hold this position.

Lillian Bonsignore’s Background and Experience

Bonsignore has an extensive career in emergency medical services. She joined the department as an EMT in 1991 and rose through the ranks over her twenty-plus years of service. In 2019, she became the first female head of the EMS bureau.

Her tenure included guiding the EMS team through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, the department experienced a significant increase in demand for services. Mamdani highlighted her “calm, decisive leadership” in his announcement, emphasizing her suitability for the role during times of uncertainty.

Commitment to Improving EMS Pay

Bonsignore’s appointment may also signify a commitment to address the pay disparities faced by EMTs. Many in this sector have long called for equal pay compared to other first responders. Currently, EMS personnel earn considerably less than their counterparts in law enforcement and firefighting.

Career Milestones

First woman to lead FDNY’s EMS bureau in 2019.
Promotions: Lieutenant (2002), Captain (2005), Deputy Chief (2009).
Oversaw certification of over 13,000 EMTs as Deputy Assistant Chief.
Responded to the September 11 attacks in 2001.

Leadership and Future Challenges

The relationship between the FDNY and EMS has experienced stress due to staffing shortages and low salaries. Former Commissioner Robert Tucker noted potential consequences if the trends continue, such as further staffing issues and delayed response times.

In her new role, Bonsignore is expected to tackle these challenges head-on. Her leadership style has already been praised by former FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh, who touted Bonsignore’s deep commitment to the fire department and her advocacy for essential pay increases for EMS personnel.

Looking Ahead

Mamdani has also announced plans to retain Javier Lojan and Zachary Iscol as interim commissioners for the Department of Sanitation and New York City Emergency Management, respectively. This decision aims to ensure continuity as the city transitions into a new leadership structure.