– In December, the Wauwatosa Common Council passed a term sheet that addresses items such as cost sharing, vehicle ownership, support services, and more. Council also passed a letter of intent supporting our firefighters as it relates to certain benefits.
– The study re…
Fire Merger Monthly Update
February 2026
1. Progress Update
- Both Fire Departments continue to meet at least monthly with union representatives. Interim Chief Kadrich will be starting monthly Zoom meetings for all Fire employees
- Finance and IT are reviewing the two departments’ operations to identify similarities and differences that will inform future budgeting, including cost-sharing for vehicles, staff time, and technology.
- Human Resources is comparing benefits between the two departments. They also have calls with merged departments to understand issues they’ve faced.
- If the merger is approved, the Wauwatosa Police and Fire Commission will discuss a hiring process for the Fire Chief of a merged department.
2. What's Coming Up
Government Affairs - Feb 10
present updated merger contracts for a recommendation at the committee level.
Staff applies for Innovation Grant.
It’s crucial to apply by March 31, so that we do not miss out on a year’s
worth of grant funding.
Common Council - February 24
The full Common Council will consider a vote on the merger contracts.
3. Questions We're Hearing
Q: Who oversees the new department?
A: Two bodies are required:
- Governing Board: Six total members: the Mayor, Common Council President, and City Administrator of each city. They oversee certain policies and budget decisions of the joint fire department. Think of it like how the Common Council functions.
- Fire Commission: Six total members. Three residents appointed by each community. They oversee hiring, firing, and discipline of the joint fire department as outlined in state law.
Q: What’s the status of the dispatch study?
A: A consultant has been hired to study dispatch in the context of a merged fire
department. The work will take several months, with updates anticipated in April or May.