Wausau committee tables proposal to reorganize fire department leadership to align span of control
Loading...
Summary
Committee discussed a proposed restructure to add or repurpose deputy and training division chief roles to improve oversight and reduce overtime, but members voted to table the proposal until October so staffing and budget questions can be resolved.
The Wausau Human Resources Committee discussed and then voted to table a proposed reorganization of the fire department's leadership model so department heads can address outstanding questions about staffing and budget impacts.
HR staff and Fire Chief Jeremy presented a new organizational chart that would adjust the roles of deputy fire chief and fire training division chief to improve operational oversight and provide cross-staffing flexibility. The chief said the change would address the department's span of control and allow leaders to fill battalion chief duties when needed, potentially reducing overtime. “...we could move the deputy chief into those spots if we chose to to not only save on overtime, but to get them more involved with the crews on a day to day basis,” Fire Chief Jeremy said.
Committee members acknowledged potential benefits but raised questions about timing and budget. One member said the department has “unpleasantries” that should be answered before approving further reorganization; another said the changes could be a helpful step without delaying personnel investigations. Several members noted October is the start of the city's budget season and recommended returning the item after department budgets are more settled.
Committee discussion also referenced National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) span-of-control guidance and the department's apprenticeship program. The chief reported the training division chief position had been vacant since January, and that the department had selected six participants for an apprenticeship program with an initial $10,000 incentive; roughly 20 applicants applied and the six remain in the program.
Committee member motioned to table the reorganization to the October meeting. The motion was seconded by Tierney and carried by voice vote. The HR director said staff could bring a 2026 implementation option and more detailed budget numbers when the item returns.
The committee will revisit the proposal at its October meeting, after budget workshops and follow-up information from department leaders.
