The Town of Kap’s administrator says it’s important for the municipality to be in charge of hosting flood and forest fire evacuees from further north. Town council passed a resolution not supporting groups who want to be in the lead role.
Guylain Baril says council is concerned that third party organizations don’t engage with support services and local residents. He believes town staff can gauge the pulse of emergency service providers and residents regarding participating in the evacuation program.
“Whether they are ready to support an evacuation. If they are not then we are mitigating the risks of bringing evacuations in town,” he said. “That residents of Kapuskasing may feel an impact of such an influx of people who are in town for a period of time.”
He adds that’s there a lot more a host than lodging and providing meals, it’s about coordinating medical services. Kapuskasing has also built a strong reputation in the 17 years of being in the program.
“They remember their experiences here years ago not only did they come out for short term evacuations but also for a long-timer evacuation of some of the community members,” he said. “So they do know us they remember us and they know when they’re coming here they’ll be well treated and that they’ll be comfortable, healthy and safe.”
Kapuskasing has been a host community since 2006, and is currently serving as a hub or stop over for the evacuation of Ft. Albany’s most vulnerable residents to Mississauga.
