Based on the results of the study, response times would remain the same or improve. Our departments already support each other on calls, and a merger could bring additional benefits, such as the potential for a shared dispatch center and leadership team, which would require further research.

According to the study, the estimated savings amount to around $7 million for each community over five years. For example, we would likely merge the number of reserve engines and reserve ambulances between our two organizations. Additionally, we expect there will be operational efficiencies. For example, we would only have one fire chief. Without a merger, Wauwatosa would be looking at cuts to staff and service in the coming years. This mitigates the continuing history of consistent cuts to the fire department in the last 15 years.  

Separately, recent changes to the State Innovation Fund rules offer a greater opportunity for the merged department to be eligible for an Innovation Fund grant. The annual payment under the grant could be over $4.25 million annually, or somewhere between $16 million and $21 million each over the 5 years of the program, depending on funding availability in the Innovation Fund.

As with any shared service agreement, there is an option for each Common Council to discontinue. Once a final agreement is established, there are legal options for the ending of the joint department.

If a merger were to move forward, the councils would establish clear governance structures outlining how decisions are made, how budgets are managed, and how accountability is maintained. This would be outlined in a joint agreement.

Just like today, the hiring of a Fire Chief is the decision of the Police and Fire Commission. Currently, West Allis has an interim chief, and Wauwatosa has a fire chief who anticipates retiring soon. Details about the hiring process for a new Fire Chief would be decided at a later date.

The consultant’s report outlines some recommended changes that could be made with a combined organization. These reductions, combined with adjustments to apparatus and shared expenses, could lower the cost to run a merged fire service by approximately $7 million.

It is not projected that any employees will be laid off, as attrition will address these vacancies. Our priority remains to maintain high-quality service to the community while being responsible stewards of public resources.