Slave Lake Fire Chief thanks Calgary

Last month, we all watched in sadness as the residents of Slave Lake were forced to flee their homes as a devastating fire burned through the town. I wrote then that I was very proud that more than 100 members from the Calgary Fire Department, Canada Task Force 2, the Calgary Emergency Management Agency and Public Safety Communications were immediately en route to help with the situation.

Over two weeks, the teams of dedicated Calgarians worked tirelessly to fight back the fire and help citizens through the evacuation and eventual return to Slave Lake. Here at home, many folks make donations of materials and money to help everyone affected by the tragedy.

We all have the satisfaction of knowing we helped our neighbours in a time of need. But today (June 20, 2011), my Council colleagues and I were very pleased to host the Slave Lake Fire Chief, Jamie Coutts, in Council Chamber. He wanted to personally thank the on-the-ground teams and the many other Calgarians who lent their support to Slave Lake.

It was an honour to meet Chief Coutts and accept his thanks to Calgarians.

- Mayor Naheed Nenshi