The Merrillville Professional Firefighters Local 5489 received its charter of incorporation during a recent town council meeting.

The department is joining the International Association of Firefighters and the Professional Firefighters Union of Indiana.

“This decision reflects the commitment to enhancing the safety and well-being of not only our firefighters, but to ensuring we provide the greatest level of service to our community here in Merrillville,” said Scott Molchan, Merrillville firefighter, in a press release.

“Our membership in this union strengthens our voice and allows us to better advocate for the resources that are needed to protect the residents of Merrillville,” Molchan added.

Firefighters from Schererville and Gary were present as Molchan announced the incorporation of the union.

“Your presence means a great deal to us as we take this significant step forward,” Molchan said.

Jon Parkhouse, Professional Firefighters Union of Indiana 1st district vice president, presented Molchan with the charter for Local 5489.

“That’s what this is, it’s a brotherhood, a sisterhood, where we come together, we have each other’s backs,” Parkhouse said.

Parkhouse said Northwest Indiana is a hotbed for trades and unions, and area professional firefighter unions are looking for a safe work environment, a decent salary and a reasonable retirement.

The Local 5489 came to be after a Merrillville firefighter became interested in participating in the International Association of Firefighters’ mental health initiative. Although the Merrillville firefighters weren’t affiliates of the association, officials let them take part in the training. That led to conversations about incorporating as a union.

“They knew the time was now to come together,” Parkhouse said.

Although the Local 5489 is a new entity, the members have already started work on a geographical information systems study, which could help to improve response and reduce risks.

“They’ve already hit the ground running,” Parkhouse said.