WAUWATOSA, Wis. — Two Milwaukee suburbs are giving the green light for a fire department merger.
Both the West Allis and Wauwatosa Common Councils approved the merger during their meetings Tuesday night. The joint fire department will be named Milwaukee Metro Fire Rescue.
“We recognize both communities are very proud of their fire departments so we know this is a big change and a big ask we are trying to do,” Wauwatosa Fire Chief James Case told WTMJ during a public meeting back in the fall. “But it’s one of those things we feel very strongly we have to do at this point. Both cities and fire departments, our budgets continue to be impacted and there are challenges.”
A study last year found the merger could save both cities around $7 million.
Fire officials from both cities say no cuts are expected from the merger.
“By joining forces, we’re creating a stronger, more efficient fire and EMS service that benefits every resident,” said West Allis Mayor Dan Devine. “This partnership means faster response times, better use of taxpayer dollars, and access to additional funding opportunities that will strengthen public safety for years to come.”
“For many years, through shared service agreements, our fire departments have worked closely together,” said Wauwatosa Mayor Dennis McBride. “The merger is a logical step forward, and will preserve and strengthen the level of service we offer to residents of both communities.”
The plan calls for a 10-year contract with joint service starting in April.
WAUWATOSA, Wis.- The Wauwatosa Common Council passed an intergovernmental agreement to join fire departments with the city of West Allis.
The agreement passed 12-2 Tuesday night.
The merged fire departments would enter a 10-year contract, with either city able to withdraw with a two year notice.
A study done in March 2025 shows that a merger could yield up a potential $14 million in savings, an estimated $7 million in the first five years.
Fire officials have said that a merger would not result in service reductions, but not doing the merger could lead to cuts.
