Excerpts from wisn.com:

City leaders in Wauwatosa and West Allis have released new information about a plan to merge their fire departments. Both the West Allis Common Council and Wauwatosa’s Government Affairs Committee are meeting Tuesday night to review an “initial term sheet” that lays out the structure, costs and governance for a joint fire department.

The plan calls for a 10-year initial term, followed by automatic six-year renewals, with either city able to withdraw with a two-year notice.

Each city would keep ownership of its three stations but lease them to the joint department and remain responsible for capital improvements. A similar leasing and debt-responsibility model would apply to fire vehicles and equipment.

The cities would split costs evenly based on similar service demands and budgets.

A joint board of directors made up of both cities’ mayors, council presidents, and administrators would oversee business operations. A separate joint fire commission, with three members appointed from each city, would handle hiring, promotions, and discipline.

The term sheet outlines a four-phase rollout over the next two years and beyond:

Phase 1: Governance and Planning (0–6 months)
Establish interim leadership, align legal and financial frameworks, review maintenance and equipment needs, and develop a joint communications plan.

Phase 2: Organizational Integration (6–12 months)
Unify command structure, consolidate training and standard operating guidelines, and develop shared branding.

Phase 3: Operational Deployment (12–24 months)
Optimize station coverage, integrate specialized response teams (hazmat, EMS, rescue), and host community outreach events.

Phase 4: Evaluation and Continuous Improvement (24+ months)
Implement performance tracking, employee wellness programs, and public feedback surveys, and develop a long-term strategic plan.

Consultants estimate the merger could save about $7 million in the first five years, largely through streamlined administration and shared leadership.

If approved, the two cities would combine six fire stations, hundreds of personnel, and shared resources to deliver services to more than 110,000 residents in Wauwatosa and West Allis.

thanks Crabby