Austin Fire Department pleased with new firehall

across the province stated Ewasko.

“Every division will see an increase in funding next year, which will help them engage students and invest in the programs and services that will best meet the needs of local communities.”

This year’s increased funding includes:

• $62.9 million in operating support including an additional $20 million to address cost pressures, $5 million for special needs along with increases in other existing grants;

• $8-million increase in capital support payments;

• $24-million increase to the Property Tax Offset Grant; and new

• Additional $5-million increase for independent schools.

The province is also investing another $106 million to make the one-time funding given to divisions last year permanent.

By Ken Waddell Neepawa Banner & Press

Austin Fire Department chief James Zacharias describes the new firehall as “awesome”. The new hall was formerly a construction shop but was renovated to accommodate the fire trucks and equip - community ment and the needs of the 27 volunteer firefighters. Zacharias became the chief in October 2022.

More information about the department and the fire hall can be seen on the RM of North Norfolk web site or on the Austin Fire Department Facebook page.