WAUWATOSA, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Wauwatosa Common Council approved a plan to move forward with a potential merger with the West Allis Fire Department Tuesday night, but not without confrontation. 

It happened when Alderperson Andrew Meindl questioned the Common Council and Wauwatosa's mayor about the reason for the merger. 

"Shame on you. Shame on you. For your unfounded accusations," Wauwatosa Mayor Dennis McBride said.

If fully approved, Mayor McBride says the merger could save both cities billions of dollars over the first five years. 

If it doesn't pass, the mayor says the city will need to make cuts. 

Tuesday night's meeting allows Wauwatosa to enter into talks with West Allis.

A final vote will happen later this year.