Normal Firefighters IAFF Local 2442 will host a series of public town hall meetings in January and February to discuss concerns about fire and EMS coverage in the community, following the release of a new GIS-based Community Needs Study.
The union says the report, conducted by the International Association of Fire Fighters, is the most comprehensive analysis ever completed on Normal’s station locations, staffing levels, and response times. According to Local 2442, the findings highlight growing gaps in coverage tied to population growth and rising call volume.
The town halls are open to residents, business owners, civic groups, and elected officials. Each session will include a presentation of GIS maps and models, an explanation of national response-time standards, and a discussion of how the proposed relocation of Station 2 could impact service levels. Union members will also take questions and provide information on how to view the full study and contact Town Council members.
Town Hall Schedule
Jan. 15, 1 p.m. — Activity & Recreation Center, 600 E. Willow St., Normal
Jan. 29, 6 p.m. — Bloomington Public Library, 205 E. Olive St., Bloomington (sponsored by LIFE-CIL)
Feb. 12, 4 p.m. — Illinois State University campus; location to be announced
Feb. 26, 7 p.m. — Online Zoom meeting; registration required
Attendees are asked to register in advance using links posted on Local 2442’s social media pages. A Zoom registration link is also available for the Feb. 26 virtual meeting.
Local 2442 emphasized that the town halls are organized independently by the union and are not sponsored or hosted by the Town of Normal. The union is encouraging community members to attend, ask questions, and review the data for themselves.
The full Community Needs Study and supporting documents are available online at normalfirecoverage.com and through the IAFF GIS portal. Media outlets may contact Local 2442 President Chad Pacey for interviews or additional information.
