Putnam County names new Emergency Services chief

Jim Oster has been named the new commissioner of the Putnam County Bureau of Emergency Services (BES).

Oster, a lifelong Kent resident and seasoned law enforcement and emergency response professional, will begin his service as on Dec. 1.

Oster brings more than 20 years of public safety leadership experience to the role. Rising through the ranks of the Kent Police Department, from patrol officer to sergeant to lieutenant, Oster served as the department’s executive officer and second-in-command. He oversaw the detective division, managed state grant funding, implemented departmental policies, and developed training and operational standards. He also served as assistant commander and a founding team leader of the Putnam County Emergency Response Team, directing some of the county’s highest-risk tactical operations. 

In addition to his law enforcement career, Oster began his service as an EMT with the Kent Volunteer Fire Department where he would go on to serve as a lieutenant. He has held leadership roles with the Putnam County Traffic Safety Board, Knights of Columbus, Fraternal Order of Police, and multiple youth sports programs.

“Jim Oster is a proven leader with an unwavering commitment to public safety,” said County Executive Kevin Byrne. “His decades of experience in law enforcement, emergency response, and community service make him exceptionally well-qualified to lead our Bureau of Emergency Services.

“Jim understands the challenges faced by our volunteers, law enforcement agencies, and EMS providers, and will help keep Putnam County one of the safest places to live in the country,” Byrne added. 

Oster said that serving the people of Putnam County has been the defining mission of his life. “I am honored by this opportunity and ready to work alongside the county’s dedicated emergency responders to support, train, and prepare for the challenges ahead,” he said. “Together, we will continue advancing the safety and preparedness of our community.”

Oster was selected by Byrne following a competitive interview process by an advisory committee that included Legislator Erin Crowley in her capacity as legislative liaison to the Fire and EMS Advisory Board, Deputy County Executive Jim Burpoe, Undersheriff James Menton, Director of Personnel Paul Eldridge, Director of IT/GIS and former Emergency Manager Tom Lannon, Putnam Valley EMT and former EMS Council President Mike Moculski, and Brewster Fire District Commissioner Gerry Schramek. Oster will serve as interim commissioner until he can be confirmed by a vote of the Legislature.

“Jim Oster brings a unique blend of experience, leadership, and genuine community dedication to this position,” said Crowley. “Our emergency services system will benefit greatly from his steady hand and his commitment to collaboration. I look forward to working with him as he steps into this important role.”

Oster will oversee countywide emergency response coordination, training, communications, and support for Putnam’s all-volunteer fire departments, EMS agencies, and public safety partners. His leadership to the Bureau will be complimented by myriad seasoned emergency service professionals including Deputy Commissioner Ralph Falloon, Director of Emergency Management Chris Shields, and EMS Director Bob Cuomo.

Article provided by County Executive’s Office