Lansing and East Lansing Explore Combining Fire Departments

WLNS.com is reporting that Lansing and East Lansing are looking into combining their fire departments. One chief, Randy Talifarro, already oversees both cities' departments. Now, East Lansing city leaders are set to vote on whether they will ask an accounting firm to look into the financial feasibility of creating a new fire authority to serve both cities.

If the plan is approved, Lansing and East Lansing would combine administration, training, emergency management, and equipment. The concept of regional fire authorities is not new, but is rare in Michigan. In our area, the Looking Glass Regional Fire Authority exists serving Eagle and Watertown Townships in Clinton County. The Northeast Ingham Emergency Service Authority serves the northeast corner of Ingham County, including The City of Williamston, Village of Webberville, as well as Locke, Williamstown, Leroy and Wheatfield Townships.