A recent staffing change within the Fairfield Township Fire Department is drawing concern from firefighters and prompting a response from township leaders. The Fairfield Township Professional Firefighters Union Local 5276 says township administration has reduced minimum daily fire staffing from 11 firefighters to nine in an effort to cut overtime costs. In a social media post, the union warned the move could affect emergency response capabilities, particularly at Station 211 on Morris Road. According to the union, staffing at that station could be reduced to just three firefighters, meaning crews may only be able to fully staff either a fire truck or a medic unit at a given time. Union leaders say that could impact response times and reduce available emergency coverage in parts of the township. The union also pointed to the fire levy approved by voters in May, saying residents supported the levy with the understanding it would help maintain service levels and address staffing needs, including filling three vacant firefighter positions. The union is urging township leaders to restore staffing levels, saying the reduction places additional strain on firefighters and could affect public safety.
Fairfield Township leaders responded Friday, saying important context about staffing and finances had been left out of the public discussion. Township officials said although voters approved the fire levy in May, the township will not begin receiving revenue from that levy until property tax collections start in April of 2027, with a second distribution expected in October 2027. Until then, township leaders say they must continue operating under the current budget. Township officials also emphasized the fire department is not operating with only nine people total on duty. According to the township, depending on scheduling, there may be 13 firefighters and paramedics plus three command staff on duty, for a total of 16 personnel. Even during reduced firefighter staffing days, township officials say three command staff members are typically still on duty, bringing total staffing to 12. Township leaders say the staffing adjustments were necessary to address overtime costs that had reached approximately $40,000 per month.
Officials added that other departments—including police and public works—have also seen staffing reductions through attrition as township leaders work to manage finances until new levy revenue becomes available. The township says it remains committed to public safety while balancing current financial challenges. The issue is expected to remain a topic of discussion as Fairfield Township works through budget pressures and future staffing decisions.
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