The Municipality of Lakeshore is transitioning some on-call firefighter positions to two full-time positions.
Lakeshore council approved the conversion of 10 volunteer positions to two full-time positions. The volunteer positions are currently unfilled. The full-time positions will be filled by current firefighters.
"The Lakeshore Fire Service is made up of a highly dedicated group of volunteer firefighters who will remain a vital asset to our communities for decades to come,” said Lakeshore Fire Chief Jason Suchiu. “The traditional volunteer-based model in Lakeshore, like in many communities across Ontario, has been challenged by growing demand, increased recruitment and training costs, as well as the costly impact of turnover and retirement of long-serving firefighters. These impacts have highlighted the need to adapt the department in a cost-effective way.”
The move is expected to save the municipality over $4,000 in 2027.
It is also expected to increase stability and continuity within the force.
“This is a step in the right direction as Lakeshore Fire grows to fit the needs of our growing municipality,” said Mayor Tracey Bailey. “We are incredibly lucky to be served by our dedicated firefighters, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact of staffing investments on the department. As a Council, the investment in full-time firefighters is a cost-effective solution to meet the challenges of emergency response.”
The Lakeshore Fire Department operates five fire stations in communities throughout the municipality.
