Mike Tarantino Running for Open Holbrook FD Commissioner Seat

Michael Tarantino, an ex-captain of the Holbrook Fire Department, is running for an open commissioner's seat in the department. His opponent is Joe Williams for the election that will take place on Tuesday, December 13.

The open seat belonged to Stephen McGerty, who is relocating to New Hampshire after serving two terms (10 years) on the Board of Fire Commissioners.

Tarantino, 51, currently serves as Chairman of the Department's Board of Directors. He is a Holbrook resident and a member of the department for the past 35 years. 

He and his wife Fran have been married for 15 years and have one son Michael, who is also involved at Holbrook. 

“It’s a family thing,” he said, also mentioning that his father Frank and brother Frank Jr. were members, and his wife, mother and aunt are members of Holbrook’s Ladies Auxiliary. “We took the community service to heart.”

As a member of the Board of Directors at Holbrook, he watched how the money was spent and budget lines were created.

“As a commissioner I’d see where the tax dollars are going and make sure they’re not used the wrong way,” he said. “Hopefully I can do my part to make sure things are cost efficient. I’ll help make sure the department is run correctly.”

He works full-time for Storr Tractor, a supplier of lawnmowers for golf courses across Long Island. Among other activities, Tarantino, who graduated from Sachem in 1978, is active with the Seneca PTA and the Boy Scouts.

“I’m here for the people,” he said. “I want to do a job. I’m not going in for a title. I don’t do it for money. I’ve been doing this since I’m 15 years old, became a fireman at 17. I love what I do. I’m here for the community. I’m that go to guy. If you talk to anybody who knows me, if you need something, they call Mike. I enjoy helping.”

Holbrook Fire District Election will be held on Tuesday.  Voting will take place at Holbrook Fire Headquarters at 390 Terry Blvd. in Holbrook from 3-9 p.m. Voting is open to all registered residents who live within the boarders of the Holbrook Fire District, which encompasses the Islip Town portion of Holbrook, and a small portion of Holtsville, Bayport, and Bluepoint.