While this would not mean a merger of the two departments, this proposal is in correlation with a comprehensive study of regionally-based service being conducted by both departments. East Lansing Interim City Manager George Lahanas said if a combined fire chief is implemented on an interim basis, both cities will evaluate this measure as a potential cost saving measure.

“While this does not mean that a consolidation of the Lansing and East Lansing fire departments is currently in the cards, we want to be able to consider the full range of options that may emerge from the study,” Lahanas said in a press release. “Having one chief leading the two departments on an interim basis will provide a great opportunity for understanding how each department works, what its priorities are and what potential exists for a more efficient provision of services benefiting both communities.”

Lahanas will formally introduce the proposal to the East Lansing City Council on Tuesday and final approval is projected to take place in early December.

As a stipulation, the cities will share the cost of interim chief’s salary proportionately, but this still is project to provide moderate cost savings to both departments.