WALDORF, Md. — The Westlake Volunteer Fire and EMS Department is moving closer to fully completing its separation from the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department, while assuring residents there has been no change in emergency service during the transition.
On Aug. 11, 2025, the Charles County Volunteer EMS Association voted to approve Westlake’s membership, marking one of the final milestones in the reorganization. The department submitted articles of incorporation, bylaws and IRS filings, along with confirmation of its new federal employer identification number.
An update on the progress was presented to the Charles County Board of Fire and Rescue during its Aug. 21, 2025, meeting, confirming that Westlake has completed most of the required steps and is awaiting final nonprofit and tax-exempt designations.
The department has also elected officers, with William Farnham serving as president, JR Hayden as vice president and Alexander Sutter as chief. Additional board members include Kelli Anderson, Elizabeth Stephens, William Kitzmiller, Grant Rogerson, Anjanique Sears and David Jordan.
Although some assets remain under Waldorf’s control until the nonprofit designation is finalized, Westlake officials said the department is already positioned to operate independently. Community members have been assured that fire and EMS coverage has continued without interruption throughout the process.
The BayNet previously reported on Westlake’s decision to separate from the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department earlier this year; read about it here.
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