TAMRMS#: B06
11.1
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Community Response Unit (CRU) Implementation
Notice given by: Councillor Clark
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PROPOSED MOTION(S):
recommendation
That Administration explore the feasibility and estimated costs associated with implementing a Community Response Unit (CRU) to support frontline emergency response operations alongside our fire apparatus and integrated EMS service, and that Administration review and report back on:
• Potential operational models for a Community Response Unit;
• Estimated capital and operating costs associated with implementation;
• Staffing requirements and potential deployment strategies;
• Opportunities for integration with existing Fire and EMS operations;
• Potential impacts on response times, service delivery, and resource utilization;
• Examples or best practices from comparable municipalities utilizing similar models; and
• Any anticipated funding opportunities, partnerships, or phased implementation options.
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ADMINISTRATION’S UNDERSTANDING OF THE INTENT OF THE MOTION
If approved, Administration will provide a report to Council/Committee that addresses potential operating models along with their feasibility and capital/operating costs for the implementation of a Community Response Unit to support frontline emergency response operations alongside our fire apparatus and integrated EMS service. The report will also include additional elements as defined by the motion.
PURPOSE OF REPORT
The purpose of this report is to present a motion for which Councillor Clark gave notice on May 19, 2026.
ALIGNMENT TO COUNCIL DIRECTION OR MANDATORY STATUTORY PROVISION
N/A
BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
Community Response Units exist in multiple municipalities in Alberta operating under various operating models ranging from a CRU as a physical resource to a CRU as a full service level/program with many other options in between. Administration would assess these options in a St. Albert specific data-driven context considering both community impact and need and financial implications.
On May 19, 2026, Council made the decision to maintain our integrated Fire/EMS model through a new 5 year contract with Alberta Paramedical Services (APS) which will continue the provision of two 24/7 ALS ambulances operated by the City of St. Albert. The City also continues to provide Medical First Response (MFR) with our engines and our cross trained Fire Fighter/Medics.
IMPACTS OF MOTION
Financial:
There are no financial implications specifically related to the production of a report to Council; however, current knowledge would indicate that implementation of a new service level would likely have upper end financial implications of $180,000 for capital and $1,600,000 in staffing and operating costs per CRU.
Compliance & Legal:
None at this time
Program or Service:
None at this time
Organizational:
This motion could be accommodated with internal resources.
Risks
•None at this time
ALIGNMENT TO PRIORITIES IN COUNCIL’S STRATEGIC PLAN
N/A
ALIGNMENT TO LEVELS OF SERVICE DELIVERY
F.3.4 Fire Response
Response to all types of emergency events including fire, rescue, medical first response, service calls, dangerous goods releases, motor vehicle accidents and ice/ water rescue.
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Report Date: June 16, 2026
Author: Jeff Austin, Deputy Chief, Operations
Department: Fire & EMS
Department Director: Dan Lemieux, Fire Chief
Managing Director: Diane McMordie
Chief Administrative Officer: William Fletcher