Fire Chief Jeff Soveran Shares Thoughts on Pilot Program to Address Derelict Buildings
The Government of Saskatchewan is rolling out a pilot framework that will allow participating municipalities to collaborate with volunteer fire departments to safely dispose of problem, municipal-owned structures for fire fighter training exercises.
“This is a welcome addition to our training program. We currently have a full training facility, with structures and a live burn chamber, along with storage tanks to simulate oil tank fires. Having access to various structures with different floor plans will provide invaluable hands-on experience for firefighters. It’s also a smart way to address the public safety and economic issues caused by derelict buildings,” shared Kindersley Fire Chief Jeff Soveran.
Derelict buildings pose significant public safety and economic challenges, often hindering redevelopment. This new initiative aims to provide municipalities with a cost-effective solution while enhancing firefighter preparedness.
“We are making it easier for municipalities to tackle long-standing concerns about derelict buildings while taking into account the safety of residents and consideration of environmental concerns,” Environment Minister Travis Keisig said in a statement. “This pilot project will be a great example of collaboration that benefits communities across the province.”
Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz echoed the sentiment, emphasizing local decision-making. “Municipalities are best placed to make decisions that best serve the long-term needs of their communities,” he said in a statement. “We will continue to work with our stakeholders to ensure that the provincial government is able to support cost-effective, locally-made and managed decisions.”
The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) is backing the initiative, recognizing its potential benefits for rural communities.
“SARM is pleased to hear the provincial government is initiating a pilot program to assist rural municipalities with the removal and remediation of derelict buildings they have been forced to assume title on,” SARM President Bill Huber said in a statement. “Rural municipalities want to encourage families to live, work, and stay in rural Saskatchewan, and nothing is more discouraging than a surplus of abandoned buildings.”
Details of the pilot framework are expected to be available to municipalities by summer 2025. In the upcoming spring legislative session, the Government of Saskatchewan will address any necessary regulatory or legislative changes to support the initiative.
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