THE LAST CALL
Longtime dispatcher retires
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y.
>> Joseph Decrosta spent the last 30 years doing a thankless job.
But on Friday afternoon, city police officers and firefighters lined up outside the police station to thank the longtime dispatcher, who is retiring, and wish him well.
“He has been one of our steady dispatch employees for the whole time he was here,” Assistant Fire Chief Peter Shaw said. “Losing Joe is going to be losing an important part of our dispatching center.”
Decrosta began as a fire dispatcher, but about 15 years ago the fire and police departments consoli-
dated communications, so Decrosta moved to the police station.
Decrosta, while fighting back tears, said the reception the police officers and firefighters gave him was quite amazing.
“These are the greatest guys on earth, honestly. People should be really proud of their police and fire department,” said Decrosta. “These guys are saviors, really. Honestly, they are all good people.”
As for retirement plans, Decrosta plans to take it easy for a little while. He might work per- diem as a dispatcher until the city hires his replacement.
Fittingly for someone who worked in the Spa City for many years, Decrosta also loves horses.
“I might get a couple horses,” said Decrosta. “I have a couple older brothers; I’d like to spend more time with them.”