The City of Ithaca has officially named Michael Moody as the permanent fire chief of the Ithaca Fire Department, following a unanimous vote by the Common Council on Wednesday. Moody had served as acting fire chief since October 2025 after the retirement of Rob Covert.
Moody joined the Ithaca Fire Department in 2023 as deputy chief of operations. He began his firefighting career in April 2006 in Little Falls, New York, and later joined the Herkimer Fire Department in 2007, rising through the ranks to become fire chief in 2021. A graduate of Mohawk Valley Community College, Moody has also served as a New York State Fire Instructor for the past five years, most recently with the OFPC Technical Rescue Branch.
“I am excited to step into the role as Fire Chief of the City of Ithaca,” Moody said. “Our firefighters are a highly skilled and dedicated team of professionals, and my role is to support their mission of protecting life and property. Together, we will continue building a progressive department that serves our community with the highest level of professionalism and care.”
Acting City Manager Dominick Recckio praised Moody’s experience and leadership.
“Chief Moody has the experience and dedication to lead the Ithaca Fire Department. IFD has a history of stable leadership, and I am grateful that Chief Moody is stepping into this role,” Recckio said. “In this role, I know he will continue his commitment to our firefighters and provide the best service to the community.”
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