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Walworth Fire/Rescue tells board it needs more staff, equipment and a new station
Summary
Fire/Rescue Chief Mike Kahl and department members told the Walworth Village Board on June 23 that the department needs additional hires, equipment replacements — including an aging engine and 20+-year-old air packs — and a new or renovated station to keep services local.
Fire/Rescue Chief Mike Kahl and members of the Walworth Fire/Rescue Department outlined staffing shortages, aging equipment and building problems at a special Village Board meeting on June 23.
Kahl said the department has 22 members and one paramedic on staff but the Village is licensed only for Basic EMS, limiting the level of care they may legally provide. Olivia Kovarik, speaking on the EMS side, described call volume and the department’s staffing shortfalls and urged pay increases to remain competitive with neighboring departments.
Jason Rowland, who reported on the fire side, said the department has a new ambulance on order expected by the end of the year but noted other pressing needs: Engine 384 is about 12–14 years old and likely will need replacement or major repairs; the self-contained breathing apparatus are more than 20 years old; and the department has applied for a grant and is considering selling a squad to offset equipment costs. Rowland said merging with another department “is not going to solve any problems” and might raise costs.
The department also raised concerns about the station, which was built in the 1960s and was originally projected to have a 20-year lifespan. Presenters said a new building—either a standalone station similar to neighboring Darien or Sharon, or a combined public safety facility shared with police—would better protect staff and equipment, but they said their preference is to keep the Fire/Rescue Department local. Chief Kahl requested the board’s support for retaining and investing in a locally run department; the minutes note that Fontana provided a written letter saying it does not plan to merge with Walworth.
Trustee Brooke Yunker thanked the department for the presentation and its commitment to the community. The board did not take immediate action on staffing levels, wage changes or facility funding at the special meeting.
