Winnebago's new fire department, a unified investment in public safety
The Winnebago community is enhancing its emergency response capabilities with a modern fire department facility, funded by the Winnebago Tribe and the Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System
By News Channel Nebraska
Winnebago, Neb. -- The Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska celebrated the opening of their new Co?ni Wagijire Hoci (Winnebago Emergency Services) Building building this past November, marking a well accomplished mile stone.
As the Winnebago community expands, residents recognize the need for a modern fire department to replace the outdated, cramped facility that's past its prime—an essential investment in the first responders we all depend on.
“Our vision is to lead the nation in health for indigenous people,” said Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System CEO David Edwards. “We need people who are trained and who share that vision and mission. The last piece of that puzzle is the physical space we have built here in Winnebago. So, this really is a part of that multifaceted, systemic evolution as a community and as the community’s health system.”
The facility includes a large gym, kitchen, ready room, workstations, overnight accommodations and seven oversized vehicle bays, showcasing how effective one place can be.
“It puts them in the same facility,” Edwards said. “In the old building, they were all separated and put in different buildings and towns. Now, they will all be in the same place.”
More than just a garage for fire trucks, the new building will also feature a simulation setup to train first responders on advanced techniques, like roof entries.
“The idea is we simulate climbing a ladder,” Edwards said. “Then you go over the roof, and then down through a hole on the roof. Then you go down and get somebody and bring them up to rescue them out of a fire setting."
This centralized location significantly enhances communication, coordination and response time for all first responders, especially for skilled positions like paramedics.
“Those jobs are very difficult to find,” Edwards said. “And they're very difficult to retain. So having a nice facility helps us in staff retention and satisfaction.”
The new facility, located just north of Winnebago, is owned by the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. It was funded jointly by the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and the Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System, representing a unified investment in long-term public safety infrastructure.
Not all crew members have moved into the facility, but plans are being made to occupy the building soon after January 2026.