July 23, 2025 – Stettler, Alta: Following the County of Stettler’s decision to withdraw from

the Regional Fire Agreement and form a fire commission, the Town is moving forward with

the creation of an independent, Town of Stettler Fire Department. While we acknowledge

and appreciate the past collaboration with the County and regional partners, we know a

commission model for fire services is not the right path forward for our residents and

ratepayers.

Mayor Sean Nolls explains, “When looking at a commission model it removes control and decisions over

our assets and infrastructure and this is not the right move for the Town of Stettler going forward. Retaining control of our equipment, we can reduce costs, and ensure we have the right equipment to respond to emergencies that are unique to our needs. This will give us the ability to make decisions that save Stettlerites money today, and in the future.”

While the County has questioned the viability of municipal autonomy within a regional

model, decades of success in the previous regional model has proven otherwise. A regional

model with autonomy has existed in one form or another since 1981 while providing

exceptional fire services to our community, and it is the Town’s position that we could have

continued to do the same.

As we take this step forward, the Town has carefully evaluated the implications, both

operational and financial. A thorough review of our 2025 fire service operating budget

indicates a projected savings of over $41,000 this year; and that’s only the beginning. With

continued administrative review and strategic planning, the Town anticipates even greater

cost efficiencies in the years to come with substantial savings in capital costs upwards of $2.5

million by 2031.

The Town’s long-standing investments in advanced equipment, infrastructure, and training

have positioned us to continue providing high-quality fire protection and emergency

services as an independent department. Maintaining control over our operations, assets, and

personnel is essential to meeting the specific needs of our municipality. Our equipment is

tailored to our urban environment, our staff understand the unique challenges and history

of the Town, and our planning aligns with local priorities.

Our new department will be built on the same values that have served us well for over 60

years – professionalism, community, and excellence. The Town of Stettler is proud to stand

by our residents, ensuring we deliver reliable, cost-effective, and locally-governed fire

services that reflect the Town’s needs.

We look forward to this next chapter in fire protection and community safety and thank our

residents for their continued support.