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Council hears concerns about EXFD budget, equipment replacement and asset sales
Summary
Councilmembers and staff discussed budget pressures at the East/Excelsior Fire Department, plans to delay some hires, sell an older truck, and commission a long-term capital improvement plan for equipment and facilities; some firefighters and residents expressed opposition to asset sales.
Shorewood councilmembers raised concerns July 28 about the East/Excelsior Fire Department's (EXFD) proposed 2026 budget and equipment planning.
Councilmember Maddy summarized the EXFD situation, saying the Relief Association's improved investments had permitted a retirement formula increase but that equipment needs (including SCBA purchases) and limited grant funding had strained the budget. He said the EXFD Board had delayed some hires and sought permission to sell a seldom-used truck to help balance costs. Maddy noted the department was hiring a firm to create a long-term capital improvement plan (CIP) for equipment and facilities.
Councilmember DiGruttolo criticized the pace of equipment replacement and oversight, saying that if she were grading the EXFD she would rate it "a C-" and that replacements should be phased rather than letting all equipment reach end-of-life at once. Mayor Labadie said mayors from member cities had raised concerns at a recent EXFD Board meeting and encouraged Councilmembers to review EXFD materials before future votes. Several councilmembers said the EXFD Board planned a special meeting to discuss the budget further.
The Council did not take direct action on EXFD funding tonight but encouraged follow-up, greater transparency and more detailed CIP planning.
