Candidate: John Dean

My career started with an enlistment in the Army. I served two tours as a Medic in Vietnam and was awarded a Bronze Star, Army Commendation Medal, among other military recognition. This was followed by a career that spanned more than 40 years in public safety, in fire, EMS, and law enforcement. The last 15 years I was the State Fire Marshal for the State of Maine. I was elected to the office of President of the National Association of State Fire Marshals and served six years as a member of the board of directors of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) which is responsible for developing fire and life safety codes used world-wide.

My interest in serving on this board led me to offering up my name to the county commissioners late in 2023 when they were appointing the original board. The board has five members and the original board members were appointed to either a three year or one year appointment. Mine was a one-year appointment and I decided to stand for reelection in November.

My reasons for running are the same as last year. I have a long history in public safety and the fire service in particular. I understand the needs and the challenges the fire service faces. And after living in The Villages for almost 12 years, I have a good understanding of what the residents want and expect from the Department of Public Safety.

My wife Carol and I have been married for almost 42 years. We had a daughter (deceased) and a son who is planning to move to The Villages as soon as he can.

Besides the Fire Board, I am an active member of the Villages Masonic Lodge, the Vice President of Administration for Villages Honor Flight, and I cook at the weekly Social Suppers at Hope Lutheran Church. I am a member of the American Legion Post 347.

My past community service includes being Past President of Wells (Maine) Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow, Past President of the Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Wells Water District, and Past President of the Maine Medico-Legal Society. I am a life member of the Maine Fire Chiefs Association and the Maine Chiefs of Police Association.

My interests include family, cooking, boating, and travel.

It would be an honor to continue as a member of the Villages Public Safety Department Dependent District. VPSDDD