MILTON
A proposed functional merger between the Janesville and Milton fire departments now hangs on a vote by the city of Janesville, bringing the three municipalities another step closer to consolidating fire departments.
The Milton Town Board agreed to the functional merger Monday night, and the Milton City Council voted in favor Dec. 1. Itâs not clear when Janesville officials will decide, but they are unlikely to oppose it.
The functional merger essentially combines command staff and functions of both departments and creates a path for full consolidation if a potential referendum passes.
The Milton Fire Department, which is operated by the city and town of Milton, has struggled with staffing shortages for years. Milton and Janesville have shared some services since 2017, but to operate effectively long term, Janesville Fire Chief Ernie Rhodes and Milton Finance Director Dan Nelson recommend that the Milton department consolidate with Janesville.
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