Disagreement over fire equipment raises concern in Menomonee Falls: 'Citizens are very angry'

Fire equipment concerns

MENOMONEE FALLS -- Pressure is mounting in Menomonee Falls as conflict continues over the village's fire equipment. Residents say they're frustrated with how the village is handling their demands for working fire equipment. In a statement, Village President Dave Glasgow said they are aware of the issues, and working on repairs.

"The citizens are very angry," said President of Menomonee Falls Professional Firefighters Local 3879 Kevin Myers. "It's just continuing to put citizens' lives in danger."

A Facebook post by the Menomonee Falls Firefighters Union on Thursday, Aug. 15 called out village politicians saying they have "doubled down and gambled with public safety." This, after Union President Kevin Myers says their only ladder truck was put back into service without a working ladder.

"To remove the ladder from this fire truck... two-thirds of that vehicle doesn't really work," said Myers.

In a statement to FOX6 News Friday afternoon, Glasgow said they "will continue to work on the aerial to fully resolve the issue."

Menomonee Falls Fire Department

Myers says fire engine repairs and maintenance come from the village budget, but believes the department needs a fire chief to make key decisions.

Menomonee Falls Fire Department

"Not a police chief, not a village manager, we need a fire chief," said Myers.

It's setting off alarm bells for residents like Susan Stanczyk.

"They're playing Russian roulette with us," said Stanczyk. "They keep having meetings about this, but they're not doing anything about it."

Stanczyk says she and other neighbors are fearful that in the event of en emergency their lives would be at risk.

Susan Stanczyk

"I have health issues, as many do here. I've had to use rescue several times since I've been here. That extra 10 or 15 minutes could mean my life or death," said Stanczyk.

Glasgow said Menomonee Falls is on the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System, which means neighboring communities will respond during emergencies.

Menomonee Falls Fire Department

Menomonee Falls Village President Dave Glasgow issued the following statement to FOX6 News on this matter:

"We have 4 fire engines currently in service - 3 engines and an aerial/ladder. There is an issue with the aerial part of the truck which hasn't yet been completely resolved. The Fire Department did put it into service as a pumper and we will continue to work on the aerial to fully resolve the issue.

"For MABAS - all of Waukesha County is in the system however we would typically receive priority support from the nearest neighboring communities like Brookfield, Elm Grove, Pewaukee, Sussex, Butler and from Germantown which is in Washington County."