Staffordshire Police, Fire & Crime Panel Approves Fire Precept Increase and Confirms New Chief Fire Officer

The Staffordshire Police, Fire & Crime Panel held two pivotal meetings today, addressing key issues in public safety funding and leadership. In the morning session, the panel approved a modest increase in the council tax precept for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, while the afternoon confirmation hearing resulted in the appointment of Glynn Luznyj as the new Chief Fire Officer.

The day’s proceedings began at 10:00am with a focus on the fire and rescue budget. Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Ben Adams presented his proposal for a £5 annual increase for Band D properties, aimed at bolstering the service’s financial position amid rising costs and ongoing transformation efforts. The panel approved the precept hike, which is expected to help maintain frontline services without reductions, ensuring the safety of firefighters and local communities.  This decision follows a similar approval for the policing precept earlier in the month and reflects the commissioner’s commitment to sustainable funding for emergency services.

At 11:30am, the panel shifted to a confirmation hearing for the proposed Chief Fire Officer. Following a rigorous recruitment process that included stakeholder interviews and assessments against the National Fire Chiefs Council Leadership Framework, Commissioner Adams recommended Glynn Luznyj, the service’s current Deputy Chief Fire Officer. Luznyj, who joined Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service in 1996 as a firefighter in Newcastle-under-Lyme, has risen through the ranks with extensive experience in operational response, prevention, and strategic leadership. He holds key qualifications, including Strategic Incident Command Level 4 and a Level 7 leadership credential, and has played national roles such as Secretary of the Fire Leaders Association.

The panel reviewed Luznyj’s credentials, including his proven track record in multi-agency collaboration and commitment to public service. After deliberations, the appointment was confirmed, with Luznyj set to assume the role on June 3, 2026, succeeding the retiring Rob Barber. The position carries a starting salary of £171,265 per annum.  Commissioner Adams praised the decision, noting Luznyj’s deep knowledge of Staffordshire and his vision for the service’s future.

Local reactions have been positive, with community groups and officials congratulating Luznyj on his achievement. “Congratulations to local lad Glynn Luznyj who has been appointed as Staffordshire Fire and Rescue’s new Chief Fire Officer today. What a great achievement,” shared a post from This is Leek Staffordshire on social media.

These developments underscore ongoing efforts to strengthen Staffordshire’s emergency services amid national challenges in funding and recruitment. The approved precept will take effect in the upcoming fiscal year, while Luznyj’s leadership is anticipated to build on the service’s reputation for excellence. Residents can access full meeting agendas and reports via the Staffordshire County Council’s ModernGov portal.