West Allis, Wauwatosa consider fire department merger in meeting
West Allis, Wauwatosa consider fire department merger
West Allis and Wauwatosa leaders are exploring a joint fire department merger to cut costs and improve services.
WEST ALLIS, Wis. - Two suburban cities could soon unite under one fire department.
What we know:
Leaders in West Allis and Wauwatosa met on Tuesday, Nov. 11, to review a proposal outlining the plan and timeline for a potential merger.
While no votes were taken, both Common Councils reviewed a four-phase plan detailing how the cities could combine services.
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The first six months would focus on studying dispatch operations to determine whether to consolidate or maintain separate 911 centers.
The next phase, spanning months six to 12, would address training, branding, and labor agreements.
Between months 12 and 24, the cities would host community sessions, evaluate equipment, and merge specialty teams.
The final phase would include public feedback and the creation of a 10-year strategic plan.
The cities would share costs equally, though officials acknowledged property taxes could rise slightly if the merger proceeds.
What they're saying:
Wauwatosa City Administrator James Archambo said the merger could bring financial advantages.
"I want to offer a rallying point of sorts. Why are we doing this? As a reminder, obviously there is a financial interest," said Archambo. "Joint fire departments operate under a different statute as it relates to levy limits."
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West Allis City Attorney Kail Decker added that combining departments could lead to major cost savings.
"It actually allows the cities to both save money," said Decker. "Our consultant estimated up to $1.3 million for the first year, and that savings compounds each year."
What's next:
Both councils are expected to take action on the proposal next month.
West Allis, Wauwatosa weigh fire department merger
A new study says merging West Allis and Wauwatosa fire departments could save $7 million over five years.
The Source: The information in this post was collected and produced by FOX6 News.