Sault strikes a deal with Wawa

Sault Ste. Marie City Council will take a gander next week at a proposed deal with Municipality of Wawa for reciprocal emergency assistance.

"This agreement represents a step forward in regional emergency preparedness and response," says Lauren Perry, the Sault's community emergency management co-ordinator.

"By formalizing co-operation with the Municipality of Wawa, both municipalities can better protect their communities and ensure a more effective and efficient response to emergencies," Perry says in a report prepared for Monday's city council.

Here, as described by Perry, are key provisions of the new arrangement:

• mutual support: either municipality can request assistance from the other in the event of an emergency that exceeds local capabilities
• resource allocation: the providing municipality will make resources available to the requesting municipality as soon as practicable, subject to availability
• diligence and care: both municipalities commit to exercising due diligence and care in the provision of assistance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of emergency response efforts
• reimbursement: the requesting municipality will reimburse the providing municipality for the cost of resources and assistance provided, including personnel, equipment, and materials
• indemnity: each municipality agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the other for any claims, damages, or liabilities arising from the provision of assistance
• termination: the agreement can be terminated by either party with 60 days written notice

"The City of Sault Ste. Marie and the Municipality of Wawa recognize the importance of collaboration and mutual support in times of emergency," Perry said.

"Both municipalities have unique strengths and resources that, when combined, can significantly enhance their ability to respond to and recover from emergencies and disasters."

Monday's city council meeting will be live-streamed on SooToday starting at 5 p.m.