The Mokena Fire Protection District is advancing its technological capabilities, with the Board of Trustees approving the purchase of a $26,025 station alerting system for Station 2. At its July 8 meeting, the board also heard plans from Fire Chief Joe Cirelli to begin a multi-year upgrade of the district’s Knox Box security system, transitioning from failing 1990s-era keypads to a modern eKey platform. You can read more about these upgrades in our full story.

In personnel matters, the board appointed Chris Surdel as a Fire Commissioner and increased the hours of an office coordinator to full-time to handle the administrative workload. For more on these changes, see our detailed report. The board also approved monthly bills totaling $194,081.75 and heard updates on vehicle maintenance and July 4th operations.

Ambulance Remount Project Nears Completion
The district’s ambulance remount project is in its final stages, according to Deputy Chief Rick Campbell. The fabrication of interior trim pieces and programming for interior LED lights were expected to be completed this week. A final inspection will follow, and the district hopes to have the ambulance inspected and approved by the Illinois Department of Public Health sometime in August.

July 4th Festivities Deemed a Success
The fire district participated in a successful unified command for the July 4th holiday festivities, working alongside the Mokena Police Department, the Village of Mokena, the Emergency Services Disaster Agency, and the Park District. The district responded to one EMS call during the parade. Chandler Services also debuted the fire district’s new ambulance in the parade for the community to see.

Police and Firefighters to Face Off in Softball Game
Mokena’s police officers and firefighters will play a softball game on Saturday, July 12th. The community event will take place prior to the Lion’s Club Firecracker Dance.

Staff Training Approved
The board approved several professional development opportunities for its staff. Adam Meyer was approved for three courses: Aerial Fire Apparatus EVT Prep, Rope Rescue Tech, and Watercraft Tech. Chris Buchan was approved for a Watercraft Tech course, and Rebecca Duffy will attend a Fire & Life Safety Educator I course.