Whippany Fire Commissioners Hold February Regular Meeting

Discussions cover staffing, consolidation, and fire response coordination

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

The Whippany Fire District Board of Commissioners held its regular public meeting on Monday, February 9, 2026, conducting routine business and addressing a range of operational and planning matters. The board approved the Treasurer's report, provided updates on contract negotiations, and discussed staffing during a recent snowstorm. Long-standing consolidation discussions involving Cedar Knolls were referenced, and commissioners responded to resident questions about response times and EMS billing practices.

Why it matters

The Whippany Fire District is responsible for administrative policy and budgeting for the local fire department, and its regular public meetings provide transparency into the district's operations and planning. Discussions around staffing, consolidation, and interdepartmental coordination are important for ensuring the community's fire and emergency response capabilities.

The details

At the meeting, the board approved the Treasurer's report and provided updates indicating that both the FMBA contract and the chief's contract are nearing completion. Commissioners also acknowledged delays in issuing tax forms and said corrective steps are underway. Staffing during a recent snowstorm was discussed, with officials stating that a combination of volunteer and paid personnel ensured coverage. Long-standing consolidation discussions involving Cedar Knolls were referenced, with commissioners saying additional financial detail and structure would be necessary before any formal proposal advances. During public comment, residents raised questions about response times and EMS billing practices, which commissioners said would be addressed as planning develops.

  • The Whippany Fire District Board of Commissioners held its regular public meeting on Monday, February 9, 2026.

The players

Whippany Fire District Board of Commissioners

The elected board responsible for administrative policy and budgeting for the Whippany Fire Department under New Jersey law.

Thomas 'Ace' Gallagher

The mayor of Whippany, who attended the meeting along with Committeeman Brian Cahill, underscoring cooperation between the Township Committee and the Fire District.

Brian Cahill

A Whippany Township Committee member who attended the fire district meeting.

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What they’re saying

“We're here to help you and help the town so we can serve everybody better.”

— Thomas 'Ace' Gallagher, Mayor

What’s next

The Whippany Fire District Board of Commissioners will continue to hold monthly public meetings, with the next one scheduled for March 9, 2026.

The takeaway

The Whippany Fire District's regular public meetings provide transparency into the district's operations and planning, covering important topics like staffing, consolidation, and interdepartmental coordination. These discussions help ensure the community's fire and emergency response capabilities remain strong.