Here’s a look at what’s new in the Middleburg Heights Fire, Police and Service departments.
Fire Department
Residents may soon notice two new ambulances on the streets — an upgrade to the city’s emergency response fleet. These state-of-the-art vehicles will become part of the Fire Department’s lineup, increasing the total number of ambulances in service to four.
According to Fire Chief Briant Galgas, the decision to expand the fleet is all about readiness and reliability. Galgas explains, “In the event a squad is out for routine maintenance, this allows us to have a backup and always be ready for the next run.”
The new ambulances feature an all-red color scheme, matching the new fire truck and enhancing the visual consistency of the Fire Department’s fleet.
This fleet expansion is a vital step toward improving emergency preparedness and ensuring that life-saving services are always available when seconds matter most.
Each ambulance also comes equipped with state-of-the-art cardiac monitors through which paramedics can see in real time what a patient’s heart is doing, perform diagnostics and send that information immediately to the emergency room.
“Our paramedics often work in a chaotic emergency scene and still must be able to identify and correct emergent medical issues and communicate to the hospital immediately,” Galgas says. “This cutting-edge equipment enhances the capabilities of our already highly skilled personnel.
Keep an eye out for these new vehicles and rest assured that your local first responders are better equipped than ever to serve and protect our community.
Police Department
Ever-focused on making Middleburg Heights a safe place to live, work and visit, the police department has also implemented some new technology.
Stop sticks, designed to deter or end any pursuit or chase in a safe manner, will be deployed by this summer, says Police Chief Edward Tomba.
The department has also increased the number of flock cameras, some of them portable, throughout the city, bringing the total number up to 21. Flock cameras are used by law enforcement agencies to help identify vehicles involved in crimes, or they can aid when there are Amber Alerts.
“In a city our size, those cameras provide us with a lot of coverage,” Tomba says.
Tomba notes that the department is also actively focused on engaging the residents and providing top-notch services.
“I’m very proud of the fact that our officers are some of the best around,” Tomba says.
Service Department
Buildings, city parks, public roads, street signs and traffic signals, sewer upkeep, snow and ice services, leaf collection — the list goes on when it comes to the Middleburg Heights Service Department’s responsibilities.
“We’re probably the one entity in the city that touches your life every day,” says James Herron, director of public service for Middleburg Heights.
From flood control initiatives like the construction of new detention basins to critical infrastructure upgrades including water line and storm sewer improvements, the department plays a vital role in maintaining the safety and functionality of the city. Residents benefit daily from their work, whether it’s smoother streets, safer sidewalks or more efficient stormwater management. These ongoing efforts not only enhance quality of life but also ensure Middleburg Heights remains a well-maintained, resilient community.
