The price tag for a new County of Stettler fire department is starting to become clear, as councillors approved almost $400,000 worth of such equipment at their regular meeting July 9.

Councillors read a report and heard a presentation by Manager of County of Stettler Fire Department Ivan Dijkstra.

Readers should note several weeks ago the County of Stettler voiced its intention to leave the regional fire services agreement it has with the Town of Stettler and form both its own fire department and a regional fire commission.

Dijkstra’s presentation included a list of features and equipment needed to outfit a new fire station, or fire hall, and that none of this was budgeted for 2025; hence, councillors had to approve it directly.

“As a result of the move towards the establishment of a regional fire commission, without the Town of Stettler joining us and to ensure the county fire station is fully functional, additional equipment and supplies will need to be purchased,” stated the staff memo. “Items being considered are those that are currently jointly owned and form part of the current Stettler Regional Fire Department (SRFD) Station 1 and are either built-in to Station 1 or not likely to be transferred to the new county station.”

Dijkstra noted, however, that since councillors decided to leave the regional fire agreement they’ve already agreed to a lease agreement on a suitable building. The fire manager pointed out, though, that this building needs quite a few features necessary for a fire station and that some of the building improvements he was about to provide are estimates, as the County of Stettler hasn’t got access to the building yet.

Dijkstra’s report included a number of items and the offers provided by various suppliers, contractors and businesses.

Among the items and the recommended offer price were gear lockers for personal protective equipment (PPE) priced at $17,250, soft mount gear washer at $8,642, extrication tools priced at $57,463.60, rescue truck tools priced at $10,000, breathing air compressor priced at $99,081, classroom furniture priced at $10,530, furnishings for three offices priced at $6,500 and estimated leasehold improvements of about $82,000.

The fire manager pointed out general and fire reserve accounts have enough money to cover the requests; it was also noted during discussion that other revenue may come in from partners in a new fire commission.

He observed that as the town and county split up their fire departments, other equipment may become available. “This request does not consider current equipment we may purchase or the town’s share of our revenue from selling our share of those assets,” stated the staff memo. 

“These totals should be reduced as the transition happens, but we are seeking authorization on the total value of all purchases so we do not need to return to council numerous times.”

During discussion it was noted that some equipment currently located at station 1, which readers probably know as the Stettler fire hall, could possibly be removed and installed at the new county facility; however, Dijkstra pointed out not everything can be removed.

During discussion comments were made by councillors and staff that gave the impression that existing firefighters appear to have a choice of remaining a Town of Stettler firefighter, moving over to become a County of Stettler firefighter or working for both.

Coun. Justin Stevens asked if comparability of equipment was a factor in these new purchases. Dijkstra responded yes, all equipment is to be fully compatible with existing equipment at the county’s other stations and with the Town of Stettler. Dijkstra pointed out though that any time new equipment is purchased a training period is needed afterwards.

As the requests were discussed, staff noted the County of Stettler contacted the Town of Stettler to discuss these purchases; county staff stated that town staff told them they couldn’t respond now because some town staff were on vacation. County staff stated that was the last response received on the issue.

Councillors unanimously approved $391,000 from general and fire reserves for Dijkstra’s requests, plus $50,000 for contingency.