(WAUPUN) A proposed shared agreement for fire service has been drafted between the city of Waupun and its surrounding townships.
Under the terms of the draft agreement, the city will provide fire protection and prevention services to the town of Chester and designated portions of the towns of Trenton and Waupun. In return, each township will contribute an annual service fee calculated using a weighted formula based on equalized property value, population, and call volume.
The hope is that the region will see cost savings both through the elimination of duplicated equipment and coordination of joint purchases in the future. It would also allow the department to better compensate volunteer firefighters.
Historically, the region has been serviced by two separate fire departments, under the leadership of Waupun Fire Chief B.J. DeMaa. He says this partnership is about coming together to deliver the best possible service to residents regardless of which side of the municipal line they live on.
With the support of the Public Administration Associates and funding from a state grant received by the town of Waupun, a joint planning team has worked over the past year to develop a sustainable and equitable path forward. Wisconsin statutes authorize intergovernmental cooperation, allowing municipalities and other governmental entities to contract with each other to jointly receive services, share powers, or establish shared agencies, departments, or commissions.
Waupun Mayor Rohn Bishop says from the city’s perspective, this agreement is not only a fiscally responsible move, but also a meaningful investment in the safety and well-being of their residents. He adds that by working together, they can better support the dedicated volunteers who keep their communities safe.
The proposed agreement is subject to final approval by the governing boards of each represented jurisdiction, including the Waupun common council and the boards of the towns of Waupun, Chester, and Trenton. After a period of public input and review, each board will consider action on the draft agreement later this fall. If approved, the agreement would go into effect on January 1st.
