Greenfield and West Allis health departments to merge

WEST ALLIS, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Greenfield Health Department is set to merge with the West Allis Health Department, forming the new Southwest Suburban Health Department.

This move was announced in a Wednesday, March 27 press release, noting that the goal of the merger is to consolidate public health services for the communities of West Allis and Greenfield.

The merger was approved by the common councils of both cities, establishing a unified entity created to deliver more efficient and comprehensive public health services.

The creation of the Southwest Suburban Health Department is supported by an intergovernmental agreement for a five-year term, with a joint board of health overseeing its operations. Funding will be provided by both cities and state health grants.

Mayor Dan Devine of West Allis noted the collaborative history between the two departments, stating, "The opportunity to formalize our mutual approach to serving our communities through the creation of the Southwest Suburban Health Department will allow us to more strategically and effectively meet the needs of the public."

Michael Neitzke, mayor of Greenfield, added, "The unification of our public health department with West Allis will allow for a more streamlined and focused delivery of community and environmental health services to all residents we serve."