In less than a year, the Standard Fire Department has finished construction on its brand new fire hall. On Saturday, May 4, residents had their first look at the new hall during its grand opening.
However, none were more excited than the firefighters who had worked for years to make the dream of a new hall a reality.
“We are totally excited to be in the new hall, to have the room, have space for all our trucks, and take care of our people properly. It’s the best thing to have happened to us,” said Standard Fire Chief Phil Faubion.
The new hall boasts six bays, compared to the old hall’s three, modern infrastructure, and, perhaps most importantly, gives firefighters easier access to the highways surrounding town.
“We had to operate our old hall out of a playground zone and driving by the arena, which made it pretty interesting sometimes trying to get out of town. This way, we can get in and out of the hall without having to worry about kids,” said Faubion.
Don McKerrell of ProDesign (left), Brett Gates, Malcom McKinnon, Fire Chief Phil Faubion, Wheatland Reeve Glenn Koester, and Standard Mayor Alan Larsen gather to cut the ribbon (which was caution tape in this case) at the grand opening of the new Standard Fire Hall.
In the end, the hall cost $832,000. Wheatland County contributed 60 per cent of the cost, the Village of Standard roughly 20 per cent, and the final 20 per cent was raised by the firefighters themselves.
“There was tons of fundraising. We did raffles, silent auctions, suppers, saved money we raised doing vehicle accidents on the highways, and a number of people and businesses donated. People appreciate what we do and we appreciate what they do for us,” said Faubion.
A point of pride for the village is the hall is already completely paid for.
“It’s really great. The volunteers have put a lot of time and effort into it. It’s nice to have it open. This is completely paid for. One of the quotes they’re probably sick and tired of hearing from me is ‘they did it, did it on time, and under budget,’” said Mayor Alan Larsen. “It’s pretty huge.”
The grand opening also saw members of the Standard Fire Department being recognized for their years of dedication. The Village of Standard presented certificates to those who have served more than five years.
In addition, the Alberta Fire Commissioners Office recognized Colin and Debbie Gates, Martin and Glenda Gauthier, Scott Jensen, Malcom McKinnon, and Faubion with the Alberta Emergency Services Medal. The medal recognizes those who have served for at least 12 years for their dedication, talents, and, in some cases, for giving their lives to save others.
One new feature of the hall is a giant Canadian flag, which arrived early in April.
“The flag hanging here, flew on the peace tower in Ottawa on April 12, 2012. Twenty-three years ago I put my name on a list for people wanting the flag. I couldn’t think of a better place to donate this flag to,” said Andy Schulthess.
Afterwards, attendees were treated to a barbecue and were free to explore the new hall.
“This is just great. I can’t say enough about volunteer firefighters,” said Wheatland Reeve Glenn Koester. “They spend a lot of time training and working for the residents of the community.”
