Red Deer City Council affirmed its full confidence in Emergency Services Chief Ken McMullen, Deputy Chief Tyler Pelke, Deputy Chief Curtis Schaefer, Deputy Chief Chris Kearns and the leadership team within Red Deer Emergency Services (RDES), passing a formal resolution at Monday's regular Council meeting.
The resolution reinforces Council’s support for Emergency Services leadership, budget decisions, and a newly adopted staffing model implemented within emergency services starting in January.
Council’s resolution follows recent discussions regarding emergency services staffing and budget adjustments, as well as a vote of non-confidence and censure that IAFF Local 1190 is believed to have conducted.
"Public safety remains our highest priority," said Mayor Ken Johnston. "City Council has every confidence in the decisions being made by Chief McMullen and our Emergency Services leadership team. They are balancing operational needs with financial responsibility while ensuring Red Deer remains well protected. This resolution sends a clear message that we stand behind our leadership team and the work they do every day to serve our city."
Currently, IAFF Local 1190 has not formally notified The City of Red Deer about the outcome or details of the vote.
In 2024, Red Deer Emergency Services had the highest per capita overtime costs in Alberta, exceeding $3.2 million.
As part of the 2025 budget process, City Council approved a $600,000 reduction in overtime spending within Emergency Services through dynamic staffing.
"Our Emergency Services leadership team has and continues to make responsible, data-driven decisions that balance operational needs with our current financial realities," said City Manager Tara Lodewyk. "Council’s resolution today reinforces that we have the right team in place, making difficult decisions that are right for our community as we work to ensure Red Deer continues to be protected today and going forward.”
The City of Red Deer says it remains committed to ongoing dialogue with IAFF Local 1190 and emergency services personnel.
Labour Relations Management Meetings are in place between The City of Red Deer and IAFF Local 1190.
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