Marshfield Common Council and Fire and Police Commission Review Results of Study Examining Department’s Training Needs

Tuesday, September 15th, 2026 -- 11:01 AM

The Marshfield Common Council and Fire and Police Commission met jointly Sept. 8 to review the results of a study examining Marshfield Fire and Rescue Department training needs and the City’s existing training facility.

The meeting was informational only, and no action was taken on the study recommendations. Short Elliott Hendrickson Inc. (SEH) presented the study, which evaluated the department’s training program, documentation and oversight, existing training facilities, and options for future improvements.

The study also compared rehabilitation of the existing site with development of a new regional training facility. The study found that firefighters should participate in approximately 220 to 250 hours of training annually.

The department’s documented three-year monthly average was approximately 5.9 hours, although SEH noted that actual training is likely higher due to inconsistent documentation and limitations in the current tracking system.

SEH also found that the existing training facility is significantly outdated. The current site has adequate acreage and remains usable, but its layout, infrastructure and surrounding land uses make it less suitable for long-term expansion.

The existing burn building, constructed in 1962, cannot meet current National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) live-fire training certification requirements. SEH recommends development of a new regional training facility.

The study suggests considering a site of at least five acres and notes that a location in the northern portion of the City could better serve long-term response and training needs.

The facility could also continue regional partnerships with Mid-State Technical College and surrounding fire departments. Planning estimates place new training structures at approximately $950,000 to $1.5 million, with additional costs for land, infrastructure and specialized training equipment.

The overall concept presented at the meeting was estimated at approximately $1.2 million to $2 million and could be developed over multiple years. The study recommends a phased approach to planning, construction and future expansion.

The study also recommends improved training oversight, standardized documentation and increased training time. A proposed organizational restructuring discussed at the meeting would include a dedicated Deputy Chief of Training and one additional full-time position.

A potential second fire station was identified only as a possible future expansion of a new site. It is not part of an approved project. The study places a potential second station in a later phase if the future City needs support.

The Fire and Police Commission will continue reviewing training documentation, and additional information will be provided to both the Commission and Common Council as future options are considered.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.