Halton Hills Reorganizes Town Structure, Establishes New Corporate and Emergency Services Department
Halton Hills corporate restructuring merges Corporate Services and Fire under new leadership to improve efficiency and strengthen municipal operations.
HALTON HILLS, ON — The Town of Halton Hills has announced a significant internal reorganization aimed at improving operational efficiency and better aligning leadership expertise across departments.
Effective January 19, the Town has merged its Corporate Services Department and Fire Department into a newly created Corporate and Emergency Services Department, to be led by Jon Rehill, the Town’s former Fire Chief and Commissioner.
The restructuring was introduced by Chief Administrative Officer Chris Mills, who said the move is designed to maximize existing talent while streamlining municipal operations.
“To some it may seem unconventional to put a Fire Chief in charge of Corporate Services, which includes finance, human resources, information technology and purchasing,” Mills said. “But in reviewing skill sets and experience, it makes a lot of sense to have Jon in this role.”
Leadership Transition and Expanded Responsibilities
Under the new structure, Rehill will continue to oversee the Fire Department at a strategic level but will step back from day-to-day operational management. The Town expects to appoint a new Fire Chief in the near future to handle operational responsibilities.
Rehill joined the Town of Halton Hills in 2021 as Fire Chief and Commissioner. He holds a master’s degree in emergency management and business continuity, a diploma in public administration, and multiple technical certifications in both fire services and business administration.
Mills noted that Rehill has shown strong aptitude beyond emergency services during his tenure.
“During his time at the Town, Jon has demonstrated a keen interest in budget deliberations and has initiated new departmental processes,” he said.
Mayor Ann Lawlor also voiced support for the appointment, citing Rehill’s administrative experience and leadership.
“Chief Rehill is an experienced administrator with broad experience,” Lawlor said. “Councillors and I look forward to working with him in this new role.”
Permanent Appointments Strengthen Financial Leadership
As part of the broader reorganization, two senior finance roles have been confirmed on a permanent basis. Joey Vandermeer has been appointed as the Town’s new Treasurer, while Amy Tawse will serve as Deputy Treasurer. Both had previously been working in acting capacities.
Town officials say these appointments will provide continuity and stability within the municipality’s financial operations as Halton Hills continues to grow.
About the Town of Halton Hills
Halton Hills is home to approximately 60,000 residents and includes the urban centres of Georgetown and Acton, the Halton Hills Premier Gateway employment area, and the hamlets of Glen Williams, Stewarttown and Norval. The Town is widely recognized for its natural beauty, strong agricultural community, high quality of life and proximity to major Greater Toronto Area centres, including Brampton, Mississauga and Toronto.
The municipality has consistently ranked among Canada’s top small communities in national assessments.
More information is available on the Town of Halton Hills’ official website.
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