TOWNSHIP OF ESQUIMALT STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: September 29, 2025 Report No. FIRE-25-009
TO: Council
FROM: Matt Furlot, Fire Chief
SUBJECT: FireSmart Community Funding & Supports Program
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
That Council approve the acceptance of funding under the 2025 FireSmart Community Funding & Supports Program in the amount of $138,003.65, and that the Mayor and Corporate Officer be authorized to execute any required grant agreements related to the successful application, as outlined in Staff Report No. FIRE-25-009.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Staff have secured $138,003.65 in funding through the 2025 FireSmart Community Funding & Supports Program, administered by the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM). This grant supports initiatives that strengthen wildfire preparedness and community resilience, including public education campaigns, interagency cooperation, emergency planning, and FireSmart activities for residential areas.
The funding provides full cost recovery and requires no additional municipal contribution beyond staff administration time. Accepting the grant will enable the Township to advance FireSmart initiatives that directly reduce wildfire risk. It will also enhance collaboration with regional partners and improve resident awareness and readiness.
BACKGROUND:
The Township of Esquimalt is exposed to increasing wildfire risk due to its location within the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI). Hotter and drier summer conditions linked to climate change further increase this risk.
The FireSmart Community Funding & Supports Program, delivered by UBCM and funded by the provincial and federal governments, provides financial support for local governments to reduce wildfire risk and strengthen community resiliency.
Staff submitted an application to this program to advance FireSmart education, strengthen planning and cooperation with regional partners, and provide direct support to residential wildfire mitigation.
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