District Approves Station Repairs and Addresses Engine Issues

Mokena Fire Protection District Meeting | Nov. 11, 2025

Article Summary: The Mokena Fire Protection District Board authorized spending for facility repairs, including new flooring and door replacements at two stations. Fire officials also reported on the service status of key vehicles, noting that Engine 92 is currently out of service awaiting repairs.

Facilities and Fleet Key Points:

• Vehicle Repairs: Engine 92 is out of service due to a transmission issue; parts are expected shortly.

• Station Upgrades: The board approved replacing rusted doors at Stations 1 and 2 for approximately $8,000.

• Flooring Project: The Foreign Fire Insurance Board will contribute $10,000 toward a $14,000 flooring upgrade, with the district covering the remaining balance.

The Mokena Fire Protection District Board of Trustees on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, moved forward with several facility maintenance projects and received updates on the condition of the district’s fleet.

Deputy Chief Rick Campbell reported that Engine 92, based out of Station 2, is currently out of service. The vehicle has a faulty transmission solenoid preventing the fire pump from engaging. Campbell noted this was an intermittent problem and that the replacement solenoid was scheduled for delivery within the week to Chandler Services for repairs.

Campbell also reported that Truck 92 is undergoing work at Chandler Services, with completion expected in mid-December. The district is currently waiting for upper ball joint assemblies to be installed.

Regarding facilities, Fire Chief Joe Cirelli presented a proposal from the Foreign Fire Insurance Board (FFIB) to upgrade flooring at Station 1 and Station 2 to align with a recent dorm remodel. The total cost is estimated at $14,000. The FFIB offered to contribute $10,000, leaving the district to pay the approximate $4,000 difference. The board agreed to the expenditure.

The trustees also approved approximately $8,000 to replace aging, rusted doors at Stations 1 and 2. Chief Cirelli noted the replacement was necessary before cold weather sets in and prior to scheduled drywall and painting work. The board further agreed to proceed with drywall repairs and painting in the kitchens, day rooms, hallways, and offices of the firefighter quarters at both stations.

Campbell provided an update on the ongoing bunk room project at Station 2, which began October 6. Rough framing, HVAC, fire alarms, sprinklers, electrical work, and drywall have been completed, with walls and ceilings primed.