Candidate: James A Calamari

Mr. Calamari has been a resident of north Naples for over 20 years.  

He is well versed in, and has a complete understanding of, the complexities of government agencies including emergency services. Mr. Calamari works for Pelican Marsh CDD which, like the North Collier Fire District, is a special purpose district. Pelican Marsh is completely funded by assessment. Mr. Calamari has been operating within and managing the budget for his department for over a decade. As such he is intimately aware and educated on how to work within a defined budget and fully understands how special assessment and government funding works.

Mr. Calamari has a vested interest in the community. Both of his children were born here, are growing up here, go to church here, and are being educated here. Mr. Calamari graduated Magna Cum Laude with a master’s Degree in Public Administration from Hodges University. 

Mr. Calamari has been in public service since 1984 and the emergency services since 1989.

Prior to moving to Florida, he resided in Long Island, New York and worked for the New York City Fire Department. After moving to Florida, he volunteered for several years as a firefighter with the Golden Gate Fire Department and was a member of the Golden Gate Fire Fighters Association, serving for 2 years as its president. 

Since 2001 he has been involved in responding to disaster emergencies on the federal level as a Deputy Commander of a National Disaster Medical Team.

During the response in Florida to the devastating hurricane season of 2004, he deployed with the State of Florida and ran Disaster Recovery Centers throughout Lee County and was awarded citations and commendations for dedication and superior level of service. 

Mr. Calamari was elected to Seat 5 of the North Collier Fire District in 2018. His continuing goal as commissioner will be to provide the best service possible to the citizens and visitors of North Naples within the approved budget. As a Commissioner he has proven himself to be a fair and honest representative of the people and for the District.

Upon re-election Commissioner Calamari will continue to see that each and every issue brought before the commission will be given equal and fair consideration, and that all matters will be given due diligence.

Commissioner Calamari’s history and track record in public service and emergency services and on the Fire Commission show clearly that he is the right person for the job. His background of education, experience, and dedication are a well-balanced combination that has proven to be an excellent fit for the fire commission.