The Reporteronline.net recently published an article highlighting how Chicago Ridge's new fire chief, George Sheets, is implementing changes similar to those he introduced in Oak Lawn. Since taking over the department in July, Sheets has been focused on improving efficiency, and his latest initiative aims to cut vehicle maintenance costs by half through fleet upgrades.
Currently, the department spends approximately $60,000 annually to maintain 11 vehicles. Sheets argues this is too high, especially when compared to the Oak Lawn Fire Department’s $50,000 budget for 18 vehicles—a figure he is familiar with since he also leads that department. At a recent village board meeting, Sheets proposed replacing some of the aging equipment with a more modern and efficient solution: a quint, a combination pumper that functions as both a fire engine and a ladder truck.
“This type of apparatus consolidates multiple vehicles into one,†Sheets explained. “It comes equipped with the latest technology, which will help us respond more effectively and efficiently.†However, the cost of a demo model is estimated at around $650,000. While Sheets suggested that state or federal grants might help cover part of the expense, the village board did not approve the purchase outright. Some trustees wanted to see the quint in person before making a decision, but Sheets was given the green light to negotiate directly with the manufacturer.
He also warned that prices for quints are expected to rise by about 4% soon, and that demo units tend to sell quickly due to their discounted price. In addition to the new quint, Sheets plans to retire an aerial truck and two pumper trucks—especially one that is heavily rusted and in need of major repairs. He received an offer of $164,000 for the three vehicles, but he’s hoping to get a better deal.
Earlier this year, after reviewing data showing that firefighters responded to 86 false alarms in 2013, Sheets pushed for stricter penalties. He argued that the existing ordinance was too weak, as it only required businesses to pay $25 per false alarm starting from the seventh call. Under his recommendation, the fine was increased to $100, beginning with the second false alarm.
Sheets also addressed the ambulance service rate, noting that it had not been updated in six years and was among the lowest in the region. He recommended raising the fee to better reflect the cost of services and ensure long-term sustainability for the department. His goal remains clear: to make Chicago Ridge Fire Department more efficient, cost-effective, and ready to serve the community better than ever before.
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