Western Lakes Fire District

The meeting agenda includes reports from the Fire Chief and chief officers, along with presentations on an operational staffing and apparatus deployment model and a pre-hospital blood program. Discussion topics include a facility needs assessment, impact fee study, strategic plan updates, budget priorities, and a fire code ordinance revision. The Board will also review, discuss, and potentially take action on a blood services agreement, the purchase of personal protective equipment, a wireless interoperability radio grant, and an EMS Week proclamation.

The Fire Commission meeting agenda includes a presentation of district updates and a closed session to evaluate employment, promotion, compensation, and performance for part-time and full-time employees, specifically regarding full-time Firefighter/Paramedic candidates. Additionally, the commission will discuss and take action on the establishment of the full-time Firefighter/Paramedic eligibility pool.

The Fire Board will convene to address several items including a facility needs assessment update, an impact fee study, and potential adjustments to the EMS fee schedule. Additionally, the board will review 2025 budget amendments and a 2025 carryover resolution, alongside reports from the Fire Chief and other chief officers.

The board conducted a review of financial expenditures, including a detailed analysis of the check register. Strategic discussions included potential collaboration opportunities with the LCFR, updates on hiring processes, and operational protocols. Key actions included the approval of the 2026 meeting calendar and the removal of residency requirements for full-time district employees. Additionally, the board extended the deadline for firefighter and paramedic licensure, authorized the purchase of replacement unmanned aircraft systems for the 2026 capital project, and approved the final phase of a district-wide security camera installation.

The Board discussed and approved the 2026 Village of Merton Fire and EMS budget, including specific contract amendments and payment schedules. Additionally, the Board approved the 3.0% increase to the Village of Hartland Fire Department budget for 2026. A proposal from Reilly Penner & Benton was selected for the District's annual financial audits for 2025-2027. The Board authorized the implementation of the Lexipol Policy Manual system and approved the Waukesha County Technical College Facilities Use Agreement. Finally, the Board authorized the execution of the State of Wisconsin Urban Search and Rescue Emergency Response Services Agreement and conducted a closed session to discuss employment, compensation, and contractual agreements.