Regional fire service concept discussed in DuPage County

Faced with increasing operational costs, a coalition of mayors and fire chiefs is proposing a cooperative model to help local firefighting agencies save money while maintaining high-quality service. The DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference Fire Services Stakeholders group has developed a plan that encourages fire departments and fire protection districts to work together through a quadrant-based system.

Under the proposal, DuPage County would be divided into four quadrants, with I-88 and I-355 serving as natural boundaries. Agencies within each quadrant would be encouraged to share resources such as equipment, personnel, and training, as well as engage in joint purchasing to reduce expenses. Standardized procedures for emergency response and operations would also be introduced, according to officials involved in the initiative.

“Our goal is to create a cooperative system that keeps costs under control without compromising the level of service our residents expect,” said Gary Grasso, a county board member and co-chair of the fire services stakeholders group. “We want to ensure we’re efficient and effective, even as budgets tighten.”

The regional approach was developed over the past four years, during which the group considered various options, including the creation of a centralized countywide fire department. However, Grasso acknowledged that such a move would have been too ambitious. “Even in a place like Chicago, where big ideas are common, this wasn’t feasible,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Grasso emphasized that action is necessary due to rising costs related to pensions, equipment, and staffing. “We can’t ignore the financial pressures anymore,” he added.

Grant Eckhoff, another county board member who has long advocated for fire department consolidation, echoed these concerns. “This isn’t about politics—it’s about economics,” he said. “We need to take proactive steps to bring agencies together and find ways to cut costs before it becomes a crisis.”

Grasso pointed out that the quadrant model could work because DuPage already has a strong fire infrastructure, with numerous stations, well-trained personnel, and ample equipment. However, he stressed that participation would be entirely voluntary. “No one is forcing anyone to join,” he said. “This is about collaboration driven by the professionals, not by mandates.”

The next step for the group is to present the proposal to fire chiefs, municipal leaders, fire protection districts, and labor unions. Officials hope to gain broad support for the idea and begin pilot programs in the near future.

Grasso noted that some agencies are already working together successfully. For example, the West Suburban Fire/Rescue Alliance—including the Wheaton Fire Department and several surrounding districts—has already reduced response times and improved resource sharing through cooperation.

Thanks, Dan

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