Midland and Penetanguishene are seeking an independent consultant to conduct a feasibility study for fire-service delivery options.
The bi-municipal study is expected to examine the specific needs of each community, include a thorough evaluation of current fire services of both municipalities and “investigate different options for the delivery of safe, effective, and efficient fire services.”
Earlier this year, both municipal councils approved equal funding for the project, which will be guided by an executive steering committee featuring representation from both councils, senior staff leaders and other “stakeholders.”
Midland-Penetanguishene emergency services director/fire chief Richard Renaud said he looks forward collaborating with the selected consulting firm and sharing the results once the study is concluded.
“This study will enable both municipal councils to make informed decisions about the most effective fire service in their communities,” Renaud said.
The study, which will also consider maintaining the current shared service model for the fire chief’s role, partial or complete consolidation of fire services or separate fire services, has an overall objective of addressing costing strategies, proposed approaches to service delivery along with recommendations and business cases for each model.
Midland CAO Rhonda Bunn said the town is happy to partner with Penetanguishene on this “extensive fire services study, recognizing this is an important step for both communities to explore options for effective delivery of these critical services.”
Bunn said the town’s optimistic the results of this study will help determine the best outcomes for continued public safety, identify potential cost savings and streamlined operations, and uphold the municipality’s responsibilities under fire services legislation.
Added Penetanguishene CAO Jeff Lees: “As we move forward with this comprehensive feasibility study, we are committed to ensuring that our communities receive the best possible fire service delivery options while maintaining fiscal responsibility.”
Lees said he’s confident the study will provide both towns with a range of options for consideration and enable them to make informed decisions that benefit their communities.
“Through this study, we will be able to ensure that our fire service delivery is aligned with our community based strategic plan, and that it continues to support the well-being and safety of our residents."
The joint request for proposals to find a consultant was issued through the Bids&Tenders bid opportunities website, with a closing date of June 18.
Once the contract has been awarded to the successful proponent, the study is expected to take six months to complete. Upon conclusion of the study, the executive steering committee will review the final findings with each council receiving the final report and recommendations for consideration early next year.