Callander and Nipissing form new joint fire department

An agreement has been signed to formally create the Callander Nipissing Joint Fire Department.

It will serve both Callander and Nipissing Township with officials expecting the fire department to be in service in early 2018.

They say key benefits include standardized procedures and training, improved service delivery, stability for the fire department and long term reduced costs.

“We have been fortunate to have a successful relationship with Nipissing Township since we began sharing the services of our Fire Chief in 2011. The establishment of a Joint Fire Department was the next logical step in ensuring optimal and fiscally responsible delivery of fire services,” said Callander Mayor Hec Lavigne.

“Consolidating fire services is the most effective way to manage the increasing responsibilities Fire Departments are facing while keeping an eye on the budget line and protecting our residents to the best of our ability,” said Nipissing Township Mayor Tom Piper.

The new fire department will involve volunteer fire fighters from both Callander and Nipissing.

A local service board will oversee the fire department.

(Photo courtesy mycallander.ca)