Wauwatosa Fire Chief James Case has decided to call it a career after a quarter century of service; he will retire on Friday, January 16. Chief Case leaves behind a trail of accomplishments, including 35 years donned in uniform, split between fire service and active duty in the military, and leading Wauwatosa's emergency management amidst challenges as varied as civil unrest and the RNC 2024, as reported by the official City of Wauwatosa website.
Chief James Case announced his retirement after 25 years with the Wauwatosa Fire Department, saying, "Serving this community for the last 25 years has been the most rewarding experience of my life." His departure comes amid ongoing discussions about a potential merger with the West Allis Fire Department. Assistant Chief Barbara Kadrich will assume the role of Interim Fire Chief early this year. Kadrich brings 27 years of experience with the department and a collaborative leadership approach, providing continuity during the leadership transition.
During his tenure, Chief James Case oversaw the addition of paramedics and advanced life support equipment on every Wauwatosa fire truck. Under his leadership, the department became the first in Wisconsin to equip firefighters with whole blood, a critical advancement in emergency response. Case also played a key role in establishing operational sharing with Milwaukee Fire Station 55 and led early discussions that could pave the way for a potential merger between the Wauwatosa and West Allis fire departments, as per the City of Wauwatosa.
Chief James Case expressed confidence in Assistant Chief Barbara Kadrich as she assumes the interim leadership role, saying, "It makes retiring much easier knowing that Barb is taking the helm and will continue to move the department forward." The leadership transition comes as the Wauwatosa Police and Fire Commission reviews its options, including the appointment of a permanent fire chief. City officials note that the decision may be influenced by ongoing discussions regarding a potential merger with the West Allis Fire Department.
The future leadership of the Wauwatosa Fire Department is currently under review by the city’s Police and Fire Commission, which is considering whether to appoint a new permanent fire chief or pursue further integration with the West Allis Fire Department. Discussions are ongoing, and no final decision has been announced. The transition follows the departure of Fire Chief James Case, with Assistant Chief Barbara Kadrich assuming a leadership role as the department moves forward, according to the City of Wauwatosa website.
