Media Release

Ayr, ON – The Township of North Dumfries is pleased to announce the recruitment of Jeffrey Smith as Fire Chief / Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC).   Mr. Smith will commence his employment with the Township on Tuesday February 17^th as Chief-Designate / Alternate CEMC and will be appointed as Fire Chief / CEMC effective March 1^st, 2026. The sequencing of dates aligns with the retirement of the current incumbent, Robert Shantz. 

Following an extensive recruitment process, Jeffrey Smith was selected for the role due to his impressive 25-year career in fire services, with demonstrated progressive leadership positions. His wealth of experience, leadership skills, and commitment to public safety make him an exceptional fit to lead the skilled team at the North Dumfries Fire Department and to oversee the emergency preparedness portfolio.

Jeffrey Smith has a Diploma in Architectural Technology and Certifications in Fire Service Leadership & Administration from Dalhousie University, NFPA Fire Officer IV, Incident Management System (IMS) 300 and Emergency Management (EM) 300 designations along with a achieving the Certified Municipal Manager III classification from the Ontario Municipal Management Institute.

During Chief-Designate Smith’s career he has predominantly worked with volunteer part-time Departments which was an important aspect in the consideration of potential candidates.   Over his career he has worked as the Fire Chief / CEMC for Zorra Township, Fire Chief / CEMC in the Town of Tillsonburg, Training Officer / CEMC County of Elgin and for the last four years in the County of Norfolk as the Assistant Fire Chief and subsequently promoted to the rank of Deputy Fire Chief.

The Township of North Dumfries extends its congratulations to Chief-Designate / Alternate CEMC Jeffrey Smith and looks forward to his leadership and contributions in keeping the community safe.

To learn more about the North Dumfries Fire Department, visit the Township website.