The City of Steinbach is pleased to announce that Kelvin Toews, a 22-year veteran with the Steinbach Fire Department, will be the new Fire Chief. Current Fire Chief, Mark Loewen, announced his intent to step down last May.
Veteran fire fighter Kelvin Toews will be the new Fire Chief for the Steinbach Fire Department.
“Toews has a strong history with the Steinbach Fire Department,” said Troy Warkentin, Assistant City Manager, “He will bring continuity to the fire hall and significant experience in training and development.”
Toews who joined the Steinbach Fire Department in 1991, has spent the last eight years as Assistant Deputy Chief and says he is excited about taking on the new role. He acknowledged that recruitment and retention of fire fighters will continue to be a key focus.
This is the first full-time Fire Chief in Steinbach’s history. Previously the role has been on a part-time basis with a focus on administrative duties.
“In order to effectively run the department and provide a level of service to our growing City and the surrounding communities, a part-time role was no longer feasible,” states Warkentin. In addition to its own residents, Steinbach provides fire protection services to the RM of Ste. Anne and the RM of Hanover.
This announcement coincides with National Fire Prevention Week and Steinbach’s Annual Fire Hall Open House taking place this evening from 6-8pm.
Toews is expected to transition into the new role by the beginning of November.
