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District Update
from Fire Chief Jeffery M. Keefe
The first part of 2026 has brought continued progress and planning for the West Chicago Fire Protection District. One of the District’s major areas of focus has been long-term operational and fleet planning. The Board recently approved the purchase of a new fire engine, which will eventually be placed into frontline service at Station 5 as part of the District’s apparatus replacement program.
The District has also continued evaluating future ambulance staffing options to ensure we are positioned to meet both current needs and long-term service demands in a responsible and sustainable way.
Fire District personnel remain active in the community and continue to value opportunities to connect with the people we serve. As the weather improves, our personnel will again be participating in community events and public education activities throughout West Chicago. These events allow us to share fire and life safety information, answer questions, and give residents the opportunity to meet the personnel who serve them every day. We always appreciate the chance to engage with the community and strengthen those relationships.
Fire District administration and the Board of Trustees are also continuing work on the Fiscal Year 2026/2027 budget. Similar to last year, the proposed budget is being developed as a balanced budget, with continued focus on maintaining services efficiently and effectively while keeping costs in check. Through careful planning, vendor review, and long-term forecasting, the District remains committed to being a responsible steward of taxpayer resources while continuing to provide dependable fire, rescue, and emergency medical services.
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