Chief Mark Bell

“My love for serving the Dryden Community was instilled in me as I grew up — both of my parents served in various roles within this Department.

Being Chief is the highest honor. It gives me the opportunity to lead the men and women of this Department while setting goals and standards that help our members succeed in serving our community.

I am proud of each and every member who makes Dryden Fire and Ambulance what it is.”

Service Snapshot

• Position: Fire Chief, overseeing all administrative and operational functions of the Dryden Fire Department
• Joined: September 1982
• Departments: Fire and Ambulance
  • Certified as an interior firefighter
• Driver: All apparatuses

What special projects have you participated in?
I served on the Truck Committee for 531 and played a key role in bringing the truck to life. It officially went into service in September 2019. More recently, I worked with the Village of Dryden on the NY Forward Grant, which awarded us $4.5 million to revitalize our downtown and support long-term growth and economic prosperity.

Job: Owner of Bell’s Auto Care
I opened the Dryden location in 1986 and the Varna location in 1997.

Fun Fact: I actually enjoy working

Hobbies, Activities, and Passions
My family is most important to me. Being the Fire Chief is a massive time commitment, so that makes the moments I spend with my wife, kids, and their families even more meaningful.

Camping and boating give me the chance to unwind and enjoy quality time with my loved ones.

I also enjoy volunteering and being involved with community projects that will help bring back the strong sense of community that I remember growing up with.