From recent updates on ChicagoCBSlocal.com:
It's been reported that more than a dozen firefighters in the small community of Merrionette Park have either resigned or were let go, reducing the local fire department's staffing to less than half its usual capacity. Despite this, Fire Chief Tom Wendt insists that operations are running smoothly. With an area size of less than half a square mile, Merrionette Park relies on a fire department where firefighters are only compensated when responding to emergencies. These positions are typically renewed annually.
Tony Calzaretta, vice president of the Merrionette Park Firefighters Association, stated that he and 13 others stepped down following Chief Wendt's decision to replace three senior officers—a deputy chief, a captain, and a lieutenant. Wendt took over after Chief Len Edling retired at the end of April. He mentioned that many of the firefighters who left were already absent from most emergency responses. Plans are in motion to appoint ten new recruits at the upcoming village board meeting on May 17th. Starting next month, two firefighters will be stationed at the firehouse around the clock.
Calzaretta expressed concerns about the incoming firefighters lacking the experience and knowledge of those being replaced.
In further developments from the Merrionette Park Firefighters Association's Facebook page:
The association wishes to honor the 17 members—yes, seventeen—who either did not have their appointments renewed or chose to resign from the department this week. These individuals represent the heart and soul of the MPFD, having contributed tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of hours to serve this community. Their dedication extended beyond responding to fires, medical emergencies, and hazardous materials incidents; they also engaged in countless volunteer hours for charitable causes, participated in continuous training, and provided uncompensated support at the firehouse to ensure adequate coverage. The bonds between these men and women are unbreakable, and their contributions have transformed the department into something remarkable over the years.
These firefighters, with a collective service record exceeding 120 years, have played a pivotal role in elevating the MPFD from its state a decade ago to its current standing. Photos on the association's Facebook page offer glimpses into their lives and efforts over the years. Among those departing are:
Katie Quinn Schneider - Department Secretary, 19 years of service (not reappointed)
Deputy Chief/EMT Pat Carter - 17 years of service (not reappointed)
Captain/Paramedic Tom Ziolkowski - 15 years of service (not reappointed)
Lt./EMT Jim Carter - 8 years of service (not reappointed)
Lt./Paramedic Tony Calzaretta - 7 years of service (resigned)
EMS Coordinator Shannon Ziolkowski - 8 years of service (resigned)
Engineer/Paramedic Kyle LaPorta - 6 years of service (resigned)
Engineer/Paramedic Joe LaPorta - 5 years of service (resigned)
FF/EMT Rick Whitlock - 6 years of service (resigned)
FF/Paramedic Mike Haas - 6 years of service (resigned)
FF/Paramedic Jeff Goworowski - 4 years of service (resigned)
FF/Paramedic Scott Staal - 4 years of service (resigned)
FF/Paramedic Connor Hughes - 3 years of service (resigned)
FF/Paramedic Sean O’Connell - 2 years of service (resigned)
FF/EMT Sean Devane - >1 year of service (resigned)
FF/EMT Mose Demasi - >1 year of service (resigned)
FF/EMT Chris Ibrahim - >1 year of service (resigned)
Lt./Paramedic Joe Guarascio, with 7 years of service, has also chosen not to return from his leave of absence, bringing the total number to 18.
Thanks to everyone who has supported the MPFD over the years. Your words mean the world to us.
*Note: This is an ongoing situation, and we will continue to update as more information becomes available.
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