Loretto, MN — December 16, 2025 — West Suburban Fire District announced today that, effective January 1, the Maple Plain Fire Department will officially join the West Suburban Fire District, marking the culmination of a year-and-a-half-long planning and transition process focused on strengthening fire protection and emergency services for the region.
The Maple Plain Fire Department has a long and proud history of faithfully serving its community. This integration honors that legacy while positioning the department for long-term sustainability, enhanced training opportunities, and expanded operational support.
West Suburban Fire District was established on July 1, 2023, following the successful merger of the Loretto Volunteer Fire Department and the Hamel Volunteer Fire Department—two respected departments with deep roots in their communities. Since its formation, West Suburban Fire District has been led by experienced fire service professionals from both departments, with a continued commitment to high-quality emergency response and community safety.
Today, West Suburban Fire District is a combination department, led by Full-Time Fire Chief Jeff Leuer, and supported by a team of paid-on-call firefighters. All training and department events are compensated, and members are eligible for a retirement pension based on years of service.
With the integration of Maple Plain Fire Department, West Suburban Fire District will serve approximately 80 square miles, covering the communities of Independence, Maple Plain, Hamel, Loretto, Medina, and portions of Greenfield and Corcoran. The district will operate with approximately 70 firefighters and three strategically located stations in Loretto, Hamel, and Maple Plain, ensuring continued excellence in response times and service delivery.
Residents and businesses can expect uninterrupted and continued excellence in:
– Fire suppression
– Emergency medical services
– Hazardous materials response
– Fire prevention and safety education
West Suburban Fire District remains committed to transparent communication throughout this transition and will continue to provide updates as the integration progresses.
