Village of St. Louis celebrates new fire hall

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“It’s easier to recruit people now because of our facility,” he said. “Over the years we’ve worked hard to make it a top notch crew.”

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Village of St. Louis celebrates new fire hall

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Rural Municipality of St. Louis Reeve Emile Boutin thanked the members of the fire committee. 

“This is a testament to what can be achieved when two different parties come together and work towards a common goal. The process we went through involved a lot of negotiation, some give and take, and the recognition that the goal of achieving a new hall was of the utmost importance,” he said. 

Fire Chief James Brake said the building represents far more than concrete, steel or equipment. It represents a commitment to protecting neighbours, supporting the region, and being ready when needed most. 

“This hall gives our firefighters the space, tools and training environment they deserve. It strengthens our response capabilities, improves safety for our members, and ensures we can continue serving this community with pride and professionalism.” 

(Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

Turning to the elected officials who were in attendance, Brake said their support means a lot to his team members. 

“Today isn’t just the opening of a building. It’s the beginning of a stronger future for emergency services in St. Louis and area.” 

The project’s final price tag was more than $800,000, and roughly one-third was paid by the provincial and federal governments through the community building fund. Of the remaining funds, 55 per cent was covered by the village and 45 per cent by the RM. Batoche MLA Darlene Rowden commended both parties.

“You have demonstrated strong municipal collaboration, bringing people and resources together to improve emergency response for this area. When a community invests in emergency services, it is investing in its peace of mind. It means families can feel safer in their homes. It means faster response times when minutes matter the most,” she said.

(Image Credit: Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

Carlton Trail—Eagle Creek MP Kelly Block was also in attendance on Saturday and acknowledged the volunteer fire fighters.

“While we celebrate the bricks, mortar, and modern equipment, we are truly here to honour the heartbeat of this building, our volunteer firefighters. In communities like yours, safety is not a given. It is built on the backs of neighbours helping neighbours.” 

Block added that volunteer fire departments are the ultimate definition of public service. 

“You are farmers, business owners, parents, and friends who balance your own busy lives with the heavy responsibility of answering the call. When the call comes, you leave your beds, your family dinners, and your workplaces to rush to danger,” she said. 

 “You do it without expecting a pay cheque, driven purely by your love for and your commitment to your community.” 

Liberal MP Buckley Belanger, secretary of state for rural development, emailed a statement which was read by Caron. Belanger praised the RM and the village for their collaboration work and described the project as a milestone for the area and the communities that will benefit from its presence.

“This new facility will help ensure they have the tools they need to keep families safe when it matters most.” 

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com