News Type: All News

Wauwatosa and West Allis Approve Joint Fire Department

The Common Councils of Wauwatosa and West Allis have each voted to approve an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) to move forward with the creation of a joint fire department, which will be named Milwaukee Metro Fire Rescue. Wauwatosa’s Common Council approved the agreement on a 12-2 vote.

This historic collaboration reflects both communities’ shared commitment to providing cost-effective municipal services, prioritizing fiscal responsibility, and providing excellent fire and EMS services to the community. By merging resources and expertise, Milwaukee Metro Fire Rescue will enhance emergency response capabilities while reducing duplication and maximizing taxpayer value.

“This merger is an exciting step forward for both West Allis and Wauwatosa,” said West Allis Mayor Dan Devine. “By joining forces, we’re creating a stronger, more efficient fire and EMS service that benefits every resident. 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.”

There are many next steps before a joint fire department can officially begin. One step includes is for Milwaukee Metro Fire Rescue to apply for funding through the State Innovation Fund, which offers a significant opportunity for the merged department.

Under the program’s rules, Milwaukee Metro Fire Rescue could be eligible for an annual payment of over $4.25 million, totaling between $16 million and $21 million over five years, depending on funding availability. This grant would provide critical support for the successful implementation and sustainability of the joint department. Other steps related to beginning a joint fire department include forming a governing board and fire commission, working on decisions that would affect facilities, staffing, and more.

Milwaukee Metro Fire Rescue will combine the strengths of both departments to deliver exceptional fire and emergency services to residents of Wauwatosa and West Allis.

This partnership underscores the communities’ dedication to innovation and collaboration in municipal service delivery. We anticipate the joint fire department to begin operations in early 2027.

Sign Up for Your 2026 Yard Waste Cart – Limited Supply

About the Optional Yard Waste Cart

The Wauwatosa Common Council has updated the city’s yard waste program for 2026. Collections will now occur 11 times (biweekly, opposite your recycling) April 27 through September 25, 2026.

Residents can now purchase a 96-gallon yard waste cart for $85.00 plus tax ($90.02). This is less expensive than hardware store options. Plus, it is on wheels, and the city will service the carts just like your garbage and recycling carts, fixing broken wheels or lids. Additionally, the cart makes yard waste easier to manage, as our staff can lift it using the truck’s backlift instead of handling it manually.

Quantities are limited. Request and pay for your yard waste cart online. Delivery will be scheduled pending weather, staffing, and inventory.

Common Questions:
Q: Can I still use bags or my own containers for yard waste?

A: Yes. Residents may continue using yard waste bags or other approved containers.

Q: What are the benefits of purchasing a city-provided yard waste cart?

A: The 96-gallon cart has wheels, making it easier to move. The city also services it for you. Plus, it can be lifted by the truck’s backlift, reducing manual handling by our staff.

Q: Is there a limit to how many carts I can get?

A: Yes. Currently, each property owner may purchase one cart for $90.02.
Q: What should I do with my old yard waste cart?

A: You can bring it to the Drop Off Center (the dump) for no charge. You could arrange for a special collection ($75 for up to four items). Or, if it’s still functioning, you could give it to a neighbor.

Q: Do I need to mark my new cart with “Yard Waste” or “Yard Materials”?

A: No. The bright green lid on the new carts will let our staff know that this is your yard waste cart.

Q: Do the same weight limits apply with these new carts?

A: No. The 96-gallon cart has more capacity so the weight limit is 200 lbs. Brush can also be placed loose in the cart.

Wauwatosa’s 2026 Financial Snapshot

We are pleased to share Wauwatosa’s 2026 Financial Snapshot. In this year’s newsletter, you can find a monthly breakdown of the city’s portion of the average property tax bill, learn how the city is finding efficiencies, and learn about different city service highlights.

Do you want to receive more Wauwatosa news? Subscribe to the city’s biweekly email newsletter, Wauwatosa’s News in Brief.

Fire Chief James Case Announces Retirement; Assistant Chief Barbara Kadrich Named Interim Chief

The City of Wauwatosa announces that Fire Chief James Case will retire on January 16, 2026, concluding a distinguished career of service to the community. Over his 25 years with Wauwatosa, Chief Case has been a steady, trusted leader whose commitment to public safety has strengthened both the department and the city. His career has touched nearly every aspect of the fire service – from his early years as a firefighter paramedic and member of specialized response teams to his leadership through major citywide emergencies and department-wide advancements.

“Serving this community for the last 25 years has been the most rewarding experience of my life,” said Chief Case. “I believe we have the best group of firefighters and department personnel that will be found anywhere. Very few people get an opportunity to work with a group like this, and it has been a privilege and honor to have been part of this team. I recognize the timing of my retirement isn’t ideal with the potential merger with the West Allis Fire Department in the works. I’ve had early 2026 set as a retirement goal long before the merger talks began, and I owe it to my family to follow through with that commitment. Quite honestly, the merger makes me want to stay longer and be part of this new chapter, but I’ve had a great run, and it is time to pass the reins to our future leadership.”

To ensure strong continuity in leadership, Assistant Chief Barbara Kadrich has been appointed to serve as Interim Fire Chief beginning in early 2026. She has been with the department for 27 years and brings a collaborative leadership style that will support the department during this time of transition.

“A/C Kadrich has the perfect skill set to lead the organization today and through the potential merger. It makes retiring much easier knowing that Barb is taking the helm and will continue to move the department forward,” said Chief Case.

Career Highlights Under Chief Case’s Leadership

35 years in uniform between fire service and active-duty military
Led emergency management during civil unrest, RNC 2024, and multiple flood events
Implemented paramedics and advanced life support equipment on every fire truck
Oversaw planning and operational sharing of Milwaukee Fire Station 55
Made Wauwatosa the first fire department in Wisconsin to carry whole blood
Guided early discussions on a potential Wauwatosa and West Allis merger

The City’s Police and Fire Commission is still evaluating whether a permanent chief will be appointed for the Wauwatosa Fire Department in 2026. Their decision will depend on the outcome of ongoing discussions about a potential fire department merger between Wauwatosa and West Allis.

New Public Health Vending Machine Improves Access to Health in Wauwatosa

The Wauwatosa Health Department is excited to add a public health vending machine to its list of available community resources. Located outside of Wauwatosa’s City Hall near the employee entrance, the public health vending machine will be available 24/7 for the community to access free health and harm reduction resources. The public health vending machine will include:

  • COVID-19 test kits
  • Fentanyl and Xylazine test strips
  • Gun locks
  • Hand warmers and other winter items
  • Medication disposal items
  • Menstrual products
  • Naloxone (Narcan)
  • Personal hygiene kits
  • Pregnancy tests
  • Safer sex kits

In Wauwatosa, we recognize the role that accessible health resources can play in the lives of our community members. We’re excited to provide a new way for community members to anonymously access essential health resources, allowing us to address specific community health needs, reduce access barriers, and increase Wauwatosa’s overall health equity. Together, we can build a healthier Wauwatosa.

Adding the public health vending machine will maintain our high community standards and safety. Staff members at the Wauwatosa Health Department remain available to help community members navigate specific health needs. Staff also monitor the public health vending machine to ensure that resources remain stocked and available for the community.

Questions? Contact the Wauwatosa Health Department.