Commissioner Browne was appointed to the Taghkanic Fire District Board of Commissioners in 2024 and will stand for election in 2025. He currently serves as the Facility/Equipment Maintenance officer.
Jeff brings nearly three decades of dedicated experience to the fire service, commencing as a volunteer firefighter in 1997. His commitment to the Taghkanic Fire Company, which he joined in 2003, is underscored by his continuous executive leadership as President since 2004. His experience also includes prior service as a New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Fire Lieutenant, as well as his longtime tenure as a delegate to the Columbia County Volunteer Fire Association.
In his capacity as Commissioner, his priorities are focused on ensuring fiscal responsibility and the prudent management of taxpayer funds, advocating for the safety and rigorous training of fire personnel, and fostering open communication and transparency within the fire district.
Commissioner Browne’s leadership acumen is further developed through his distinguished service in the United States Army Reserve since 1993. He currently holds the rank of Command Sergeant Major and serves as the Brigade Command Sergeant Major for the 302nd Maneuver Enhancement Brigade. Professionally, he is employed full-time as a Supervisory Staff Administrator for the Department of the Army.
His academic credentials include a Master of Science in Information Systems Management and a graduate certificate in Business Analytics; both earned at Marist College. He is also recognized as a distinguished graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College’s Sergeants Major Course. In the fire service, he has demonstrated commitment to professional development through the completion of twenty state-sponsored training courses, totaling over 219 hours, in addition to his formal certifications as an EMT and Fire Commissioner. Moreover, his twenty-seven-year tenure with the fire service has involved numerous hours of informal and in-house training, contributing to his comprehensive skill set.
A Hudson Valley native, born in Rhinebeck, New York, Commissioner Browne has served with the Rhinebeck, Red Hook, and Taghkanic Fire Companies. Having been a dedicated member of the Taghkanic Fire Company for the past twenty-two years, he maintains a strong connection to the community.
Outside of his professional and civic duties, Jeff enjoys spending quality time with his family, particularly his granddaughters, and pursuing interests in sailing, four-wheeling, and CrossFit.