The Westmont Fire Department's facility is facing significant challenges, as highlighted during a recent presentation on May 16, 2025. The tour of the current station revealed critical issues affecting both safety and functionality, prompting urgent discussions about the need for a new facility.

One of the most pressing concerns is the inadequate space for physical fitness training. Currently, firefighters are forced to use a mechanical room for workouts, which poses health risks due to the presence of toxic gases from equipment. The insurance agency has mandated that this practice cease, leading to a makeshift conversion of a former training room into a fitness area. This change has created logistical difficulties, as training now has to be split between locations, complicating operations and response times.

Additionally, structural problems plague the facility. Water intrusion remains a persistent issue, with previous repairs failing to keep the building dry. The exterior ramp, intended to be ADA compliant, is in disrepair, raising concerns about accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The presentation underscored the urgent need for a new fire station that can adequately support the physical and operational demands of the department. As the community looks to the future, the discussions from this meeting will likely shape the direction of fire services in Westmont, ensuring that firefighters have the safe and functional environment they need to serve the community effectively. For more information, residents are encouraged to visit the village's website.