Huntsville and Lake of Bays have officially launched new chapters for their fire services as their long-standing partnership comes to an end.
Effective July 1, the two departments will operate independently, as the Fire Department Administration Service Agreement between the two municipalities concludes, following a decision by Lake of Bays council in July 2025.
Town of Huntsville Chief Administrative Officer Denise Corry said the nearly 14-year partnership reflected the close relationship between the two communities.
“The Fire Department Administration Services Agreement marked a strong and successful partnership between the Township of Lake of Bays and the Town of Huntsville for almost 14 years,” said Corry. “This realignment will allow each organization to better meet the tailored needs of our communities, streamline internal processes, and reduce duplication of administrative requirements.”
Huntsville Fire Department Fire Chief Gary Monahan emphasized that the transition will not affect emergency response capabilities and that mutual aid agreements with neighbouring departments will remain in place.
“I want to strongly reassure residents that this change will not impact the department’s ability to serve our community,” said Monahan. “Residents can expect the same high level of service and emergency response they rely on every day.”
Lake of Bays Fire Rescue Fire Chief Jeremy Alldred-Hughes said the department is optimistic about their new chapter in the community.
“We are excited about the continued evolution and renewed identity of Lake of Bays Fire Rescue, as we advance and grow to meet the needs of our municipality,” Alldred-Hughes said. “Our members take great pride in who they are, who they serve, and the meaningful contributions they make to the safety and well-being of our community.”
To celebrate the milestone, Lake of Bays Firefighters’ Association is hosting Fire Fest on July 1 at Dwight Beach, beginning at 3 p.m.
The celebration will feature live entertainment, family-friendly games, a barbecue, silent auction, and the official unveiling of the new Lake of Bays Fire Rescue logo. The event will also include fire truck and equipment displays, as well as education booths, offering attendees an opportunity to speak to the firefighters. The festivities will conclude with fireworks at dusk.
Alldred-Hughes said Fire Fest was once an annual event before it was discontinued, and that the rebranding of the department was a great opportunity to bring it back to the community.
“When our firefighters began discussing how we wanted to share this moment, they recognized the community’s desire to have Fire Fest return, and we truly couldn’t think of a better way to launch our new identity,” he said. “Our personnel are deeply committed to serving our residents, not only in times of emergency, but also as active participants in the celebrations and everyday life of the community we proudly call home.”
