The Brief
- A new study says merging West Allis and Wauwatosa fire departments could save $7 million over five years.
- Officials say the merger would not affect response times or station locations.
- Most residents voiced support, though some raised concerns about taxes and long-term impacts.
WAUWATOSA, Wis. – Fire officials in West Allis and Wauwatosa are weighing whether merging their fire departments could save money – and lives.
What we know:
The two cities hired a consulting firm to study the potential benefits of combining their departments. The 40-page report was presented Tuesday during the first public meeting in West Allis, where leaders and residents reviewed the findings.
“You have some of the best fire departments in the world working in this county,” said West Allis Interim Fire Chief Jason Schaak.…