Midland and Penetanguishene to Appoint Independent Fire Chiefs

Midland and Penetanguishene to Appoint Independent Fire Chiefs, Reinforcing Local Emergency Leadership and Regional Collaboration

The Towns of Midland and Penetanguishene have jointly agreed to transition away from their shared Fire Chief arrangement, with Midland initiating the recruitment of a permanent full-time Fire Chief who will also serve as Director of Emergency Services.  As part of this change, Penetanguishene will retain its current Fire Chief, ensuring continuity and stability in emergency services leadership while undertaking a review of its Fire Department structure to meet the evolving needs of the community.

This decision follows a collaborative feasibility review and reflects both municipalities’ commitment to strengthening emergency response capacity and leadership at the local level. For several years, the two communities have successfully shared fire leadership. As both towns continue to grow and evolve, the move toward independent leadership marks a proactive step in enhancing operational readiness and community-specific service delivery.

“This is a forward-looking decision that reflects our shared commitment to public safety,” said Rhonda Bunn, Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Midland. “We are grateful for the partnership we’ve had with Penetanguishene and remain committed to working together in emergency preparedness and mutual aid. A dedicated Fire Chief will allow Midland to better support our full-time and volunteer firefighters and tailor our services to respond effectively to local needs.”

“We’ve valued the collaboration with Midland, and this change allows both municipalities to align fire services more closely with local priorities,” said Jeff Lees, Chief Administrative Officer for the Town of Penetanguishene. “Penetanguishene will be taking this opportunity to review and assess the structure of our own Fire Department to ensure it continues to meet the unique needs of our community, now and into the future. Our communities have a strong history of cooperation, and that will absolutely continue.”

Midland will begin recruitment for its new Fire Chief immediately, with details available on the Town’s website and through official channels. The shared arrangement will remain in place until the new Chief is appointed.

Both municipalities reaffirm their commitment to mutual aid agreements and inter-community support, ensuring that emergency services remain coordinated, responsive, and resilient across the region.