Town Council has given their approval to three new policy updates regarding the Stettler Regional Fire Department.
Following a meeting of the Fire Advisory Committee on Nov 29, 2024, the updated standard operating guidelines were brought to Stettler Town Council on Jan 21 for their approval.
Firefighter Remuneration
New to the policy regarding training pay is the concept of “special hours.” This allows the Stettler Regional Fire Department to compensate individuals for pre-approved training.
Firefighters taking courses outside of the County can be compensated if approved beforehand by the Town or County Fire Chief. Firefighters are also compensated a flat fee of $60 for regular evening practices, or $75 for full day training.
Procurement, Disposition & Tendering
The next policy was in regards to the terms for the joint committee to be able to purchase capital equipment. It clarifies the Town is responsible for purchases at Station #1 within Stettler, while the County is responsible for purchases at the three other fire stations in Big Valley, Byemoor & Donalda.
It also states rules around tendering processes, such as capital purchases over $75,000 needing to be advertised before awarding tenders.
Committee Terms of Reference
The final standard operating guideline deals with the terms of reference for the Fire Advisory Committee. These guidelines set the purpose of the committee, beyond the joint fire service agreement.
The group is made up of two representatives from the Town of Stettler, two from the County of Stettler, as well as one member from each of the serviced municipalities in the area. They meet quarterly to report on incidents, training, procurements & planning for future fire service needs.
The Stettler Regional Fire Department serves both the Town & County of Stettler, as well as Big Valley, Donalda, Rochon & White Sands.
The County of Stettler gave their approval to these standard operating guidelines during their regular meeting on January 8, 2025.
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
