Past-President Gerry Maiatico Appointed to Virginia Fire Services Board

Richmond, VA — June 27, 2025 — Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced the appointment of Gerry Maiatico to the Virginia Fire Services Board. He will serve a minimum four-year term.

In his new role, Gerry will serve as the representative of the Virginia Fire Prevention Association, bringing valuable insights and specialized expertise to the board. Gerry has previously served in various positions on the Board of Directors of the Association including President.

President Maddox commented:

“Past-President Maiatico’s appointment reflects his deep commitment to fire prevention, public safety, and our Association. I am confident he will make significant contributions to the fire board’s mission and help shape policies that protect our communities and firefighters now and into the future.”

Honoring A Remarkable Legacy

At the 2025 Annual Meeting, the Virginia Fire Prevention Association proudly awarded the late Steven M. Phillips Posthumous Life Membership and the Meritorious Service Award in recognition of his outstanding dedication and hard work in fire prevention and safety.

Steven’s unwavering commitment and service to the VFPA and the community left an indelible impact. His immediate family was in attendance to accept these honors on his behalf, and we also presented a special resolution honoring his invaluable contributions.

We are grateful for Steven's legacy and proud to have known him as a dedicated leader and friend. His spirit will continue to inspire us all.

Rest in peace, Steven. You will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

2025/2026 Executive Board Elected

We are pleased to introduce our newly elected 2025/2026 Executive Board as adopted at this week’s Annual Meeting of the Association. These dedicated leaders are committed to advancing fire prevention, safety through effective codes and legislation, and training/education services to Virginia’s fire service and code enforcement communities.

Meet the Board: (Pictured Right to Left.)

**President: Shawn Maddox – Albemarle County

**1st Vice President: Steven Sites – City of Fairfax

**2nd Vice President: Robert Paxton – City of Salem

**Secretary: Jonathan Bowden – City of Lexington

**Treasurer: Austin Cucciardo – Warren County

**Delegate At-Large: Mike Yingling – State FMO

**Delegate At-Large: Keith Buchanan – Caroline County

Congratulations to all! We look forward to working together to make Virginia safer and more prepared. Thank you to everyone who participated in this important election process.

Stay tuned for updates as our new leadership guides VFPA forward!

2021 Virginia Codes Adoption

The Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) announced that the 2021 Virginia Codes have been approved. The effective date of the 2021 Uniform Statewide Building Code (USBC), Statewide Fire Prevention Code (SFPC), Industrialized Building Safety Regulations, and Amusement Device Regulations is scheduled to go into effect on Thursday, January 18, 2024. Click here to see a copy of the DCHD letter issued November 29, 2023.

Remember, if you are have a Virginia Certification as a Fire Inspector, Fire Protection Inspector, or Fire Official you need to attend the mandatory code change training taken through DCHD. More information on the code update training can be found by clicking here to go to the DCHD website.