Following the official opening of the new fire station in Crysler on Sat., April 1, firefighters were joined by local dignitaries for a photo in front of a gleaming fire truck. Thompson Goddard Photo

CRYSLER – The new fire station in Crysler was officially opened in a well attended ceremony held on Sat., April 1. Completed in early 2023, the new fire station replaces the two bay fire stations built in 1976 which was demolished in May 2022, with construction beginning the following month. The new station has three bays, a meeting space, and a training centre on an upper level, as well as potential to grow in the future.

“I’m honoured to be here today for the official opening of the Crysler fire hall. I was a member of the Crysler Fire Department for 30 years, and like many of you, I saw the need for this new building. Discussions started while Mr. Fife was mayor; finally got approval under past mayor Wert; then COVID happened. We’re now in 2023 and I’m proud to see this project finally become reality. With fiscal responsibility in mind, we’re proud to say that this building meets the needs and requirements of the fire department. This station will house the next generation of firefighters who serve and protect the growing community of Crysler and surrounding areas. To all our firefighters, rest assured that your work does not go unnoticed,” commented North Stormont Mayor François Landry in a post event email.

“It is important to keep our firefighters well equipped as they support our community,” said North Stormont Deputy Mayor Steve Densham prior to the beginning of the ceremony, during which the newly completed fire station was blessed and officially opened to serve the North Stormont community.

As the official opening began, North Stormont fire chief Nancy-Ann Gauthier welcomed people to the new, over 4,000 square feet fire station and thanked council for the support shown over the past year.  She noted the old fire station held many memories for people, expressing how new memories will be formed here as time goes on, and mentioned the important role played by spouses of firefighters.

Stormont, Dundas, and South Glengarry Member of Parliament Eric Duncan noted the dedication shown by the volunteer firefighters and thanked them for the role they play in serving their community.  “Crysler is a growing village and needs a modern firehall,” commented Duncan shortly before the ceremony began. Nolan Quinn, who represents the riding in the Ontario legislature, also thanked the firefighters for their dedication and noted how it was “a beautiful building” and was “ready for the growth which is coming.”

North Stormont Mayor François Landry, who has served as a volunteer firefighter for 30 years, noted he had many memories associated with the old fire hall and mentioned how there are more to come in the new building. He expressed his thanks to the North Stormont administrative staff led by North Stormont chief administrative officer/clerk Craig Calder, Brian Shane, Eastern Engineering, and the Public Works’ Department of North Stormont. He also thanked Paul Provost who provided storage space for the equipment during the construction of the new firehall; firefighters for their adaptability and to fire chief Gauthier for her dedication and input during the construction phase.

Paul Benoit, a retired North Stormont fire chief, was invited to bless the hall and following this a ceremonial ribbon cutting and raising of the Canadian flag was done. Guests were then invited inside the new firehall for conversation and light refreshments.