The Rural Municipality of Thompson approved the purchase of a new emergency response vehicle, finalized its 2026 tax levy bylaw and supported several community initiatives during its May 28 regular meeting.
Council approved the purchase of a 2026 Sea Hawk Command Apparatus for the Miami Fire Department and Emergency Medical Response service at an estimated cost of $169,801.73, excluding a winch option discussed during the meeting. The municipality also authorized a $50,000 down payment and directed administration to complete the necessary purchase arrangements.
The new rescue wagon will support emergency response capabilities in the municipality and provide updated equipment for fire and medical personnel.
Council also approved a $1,000 Eagle Sponsorship for the 2026 Gary Smart Memorial Golf Tournament, which will be held Aug. 15 in support of Miami Fire and Rescue.
Public works staff updated council on ongoing operations, including followup actions stemming from an insurance inspection, equipment maintenance and weekly work plans. Staff also reported on damage assessments following a recent windstorm, repairs to the Opawaka well and Dunston pressure-reducing valve, and work related to the Letain curb.
The Waste Disposal Grounds expansion project was also discussed, with council reviewing progress on the expansion and associated weight considerations.
Administration advised council that a public hearing for the municipality’s proposed zoning bylaw has been scheduled for June 25 at 10 a.m. Other updates included preparations for an upcoming assessment delegation on June 11, maintenance matters involving Collingwood, current fire ban conditions and ongoing discussions regarding phlebotomy services in the community.
Council gave third and final reading to Bylaw No. 6-2026, formally adopting the municipality’s 2026 tax levy bylaw.
First reading was also given to Bylaw No. 7-2026, the municipality’s proposed zoning bylaw, which will proceed through the public hearing process later this month.
The municipality also approved an agreement related to the transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 services. The upgrade is part of a nationwide initiative designed to modernize emergency communications systems and improve the sharing of information between callers and emergency responders.
Council approved a website renewal agreement with Catalis Technologies Canada Ltd. for continued website and content management system services.
In other business, council approved reimbursement arrangements for water usage associated with maintaining the community cenotaph after previous permission from a homeowner was withdrawn. The municipality will reimburse the homeowner at 114 Broadway St. using the same method applied during the 2025 season.
Council also approved payment of a $5,670 invoice from Horizon Earthworks Ltd. for the use of a rock truck at the Waste Disposal Grounds.
The municipality authorized $74,321.81 in accounts for payment and adopted the unaudited financial statements for the period ending April 30.
