October 7, 2026 | Preliminary Fire Station Design (Minett) Presented to Committee

At the October 7, 2026, General/Finance Committee meeting, Township staff presented an update on the development of a standardized fire station design for Minnett Fire Station 5, marking an important step toward implementing the Township's 7-Station Model Network.

In October 2025, Council approved the transition to a 7-station network following the completion of the Fire Station Location Study. The model provides a long-term approach to modernizing the Township's fire station facilities while supporting efficient and effective fire protection services across Muskoka Lakes.

Preliminary Fire Station Design in Minett

As part of the initial planning work, the Township retained EXP Architects to develop a conceptual fire station design, beginning with the proposed replacement of Fire Station 5 in Minett.

The preliminary design outlines a 5,131-square-foot facility that would include three fire truck bays, administrative and operational spaces, staff amenities, equipment storage and dedicated areas for firefighter decontamination.

The conceptual design is intended to provide a consistent approach to future fire station development, while allowing for adjustments based on the needs and location of each facility.

The 2026 Capital Budget allocated $211,300 toward the design of a replacement facility for the existing Fire Station 5, located at 1131 Juddhaven Road in Minett.

At this stage, the work is focused on developing preliminary plans and gaining a better understanding of potential construction costs before any significant construction commitments are made. A location for the new station has not yet been determined.

What's Next?

Township staff will continue developing the preliminary design and preparing a more detailed Class D construction cost estimate. This work will provide Council with a clearer understanding of the proposed facility and anticipated project costs. Staff will also prepare a funding strategy to identify potential funding sources and determine the financial requirements for implementation.

While Minett has been identified as the first station for implementation, a suitable property has not yet been secured. Depending on property availability and other project considerations, the Township may need to review the order in which future station projects proceed, including Milford Bay and Foot's Bay.

The design, updated cost estimates and funding strategy will be brought forward to Council for review and consideration at a future meeting.

The October 7 report was provided for information only. No construction has been authorized, and further Council consideration and approval will be required as the project progresses.

Project Timeline

Supporting Documents

• Staff Report OS-2026-026: Fire Station Design (October 7, 2026)
• Preliminary Conceptual Fire Station Design (Minett) (October 7, 2026)