The Westmont Fire Department is gearing up for a significant upgrade as officials presented plans for a new facility during a recent community meeting. Fire Chief Steve Riley, who has served the village for 28 years, emphasized the urgent need for a modern fire station to accommodate the growing demands of the department.

Deputy Chief Tom Frank, who has been appointed as the project manager, highlighted the current facility's limitations, including inadequate space, persistent water leaks, and safety concerns. "This building is too small, and we've outgrown it," Frank stated, underscoring the necessity for repairs that have become increasingly difficult to manage.

The fire department, recognized as an ISO Class 1 organization, is one of the few in the nation to achieve this status while operating on a part-time basis. This distinction reflects the department's commitment to excellence in service, which is becoming more challenging as call volumes continue to rise.

Community involvement was a key theme of the meeting, with various village departments collaborating on the project. Frank expressed gratitude to the public and village officials for their support, stating, "This project isn't just the fire department."

As the Westmont Fire Department prepares to move forward with the new facility, the focus remains on ensuring the health and safety of the firefighters who protect the community. The anticipated upgrades promise to enhance operational efficiency and better serve the needs of Westmont residents.