Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek and Municipality of Greenstone Sign Fire Protection Services Agreement

Lake Nipigon Reserve, ON – August 21, 2026 – Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek (AZA) and the Municipality of Greenstone are pleased to announce the signing of a Municipal Services Agreement that will provide fire protection services to the AZA community through Greenstone Fire & Emergency Services.

The agreement represents an important commitment to community safety, ensuring AZA has access to trained firefighters, equipment and emergency response resources when fire protection services are required.

The agreement is particularly important as Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek continues to grow. With new homes being constructed in the community this year, ensuring appropriate fire protection is an important part of supporting growth and providing members with safe, sustainable housing and community infrastructure.

Beyond the delivery of an essential life-safety service, the agreement is another step in strengthening the relationship between Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek and the Municipality of Greenstone. Both communities recognize the value of working together on shared priorities and developing practical partnerships that benefit the people who live throughout the area.

“Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek is growing, including through the construction of new homes in our community this year. As we continue to build for the future, it is important that the services needed to protect our members and their homes grow with us. This agreement provides an important life-safety service while also reflecting the strong and positive relationship we continue to build with the Municipality of Greenstone.”
- Chief Yvette Metansinine, Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek

Mayor James McPherson said the agreement demonstrates what can be achieved when neighbouring governments work together in the interests of their communities.

“Greenstone and Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek share much more than geography. We share people, relationships and many common interests. As AZA continues to grow, we are pleased that Greenstone Fire & Emergency Services can support that growth by helping provide an important life-safety service. This agreement is also another meaningful example of our communities working together and strengthening our relationship.”
- Mayor James McPherson, Municipality of Greenstone

For Greenstone Fire & Emergency Services, the agreement builds on the department’s commitment to protecting people and property across the region while strengthening cooperation with neighbouring First Nations.

“Growth brings new opportunities, but it also makes it increasingly important to have the right emergency services in place. Our firefighters are committed to providing professional and effective emergency response, and we are proud to extend that protection to Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek through this agreement. Our priority will always be protecting lives and property.”
- Adam Lopatka, Fire Chief/Director of Fire Services, Municipality of Greenstone

The Municipal Services Agreement reflects a shared commitment by both Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek and the Municipality of Greenstone to community safety, responsible growth, cooperation and a stronger long-term relationship.