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**Excerpts from the Daily Herald:**
A ballot question set to appear on the April 7th election is poised to shape the future of how Warrenville Fire Protection District trustees are chosen, potentially influencing whether the district takes part in any future consolidation efforts within DuPage County. Currently, the three-member board overseeing the district is appointed by the DuPage County Board Chairman, which has left many residents feeling disconnected from the decision-making process.
William Mennell, who serves as the president of the fire protection district board and spearheaded the petition drive to place this binding question on the ballot, highlighted the lack of citizen input in selecting trustees. "Citizens have very little say in who represents them," he stated. Despite being the board president, Mennell emphasized that it was fellow residents—not the trustees themselves—who initiated the ballot question.
Back in 2012, a consulting firm hired by the county recommended exploring consolidation opportunities among fire protection districts in DuPage. Warrenville was among those reviewed, and while the consultants noted the district's financial stability, Mennell argued that Warrenville already delivers high-quality fire and ambulance services without needing to merge. "Bigger isn't always better," Mennell explained, reflecting the district's stance against consolidation.
However, Board Chairman Dan Cronin, known for his push toward greater consolidation, questioned the motives behind the ballot initiative. He pointed out that county officials have consistently sought to enhance transparency and accountability within the fire protection district. According to Cronin, the district adopted DuPage County’s ethics policy but declined to sign an enforceable intergovernmental agreement. Additionally, the county had repeatedly encouraged the district to join the West Suburban Fire/Rescue Alliance, which aims to improve emergency responses through shared resources. Yet, Warrenville has shown no interest in joining this alliance, prompting Cronin to suggest they prefer operating independently.
"It’s not about whether trustees are appointed or elected," Cronin remarked, "but ensuring the district remains efficient and safe." Meanwhile, Mennell countered by stating that the district is actively collaborating with neighboring fire departments to share equipment and services, refuting claims of isolationism.
Kate Perkins, a former trustee involved in advocating for the ballot question, stressed the importance of having an elected board in any future consolidation discussions. She argued that appointed trustees might lack independence due to their reliance on Cronin, who appoints and dismisses them. "Warrenville needs to have a say," Perkins insisted, "and that won’t happen if trustees are beholden to someone else."
*Thanks to Dan and John for their contributions.*
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