Cumberland County’s three municipalities have signed a new intermunicipal agreement on emergency services.
Municipality of Cumberland Mayor Rod Gilroy hosted Amherst Mayor Robert Small and Oxford Mayor Greg Henley in signing the new intermunicipal agreement on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026, at the Upper Nappan Service Centre.
“It’s an example of the excellent cooperation we’ve had as three municipalities,” Mayor Small said following the signing. “When it comes to regional emergency management we’ve had great cooperation amongst the three of us for many years. This just continues that great working relationship.”
The agreement replaces the previous intermunicipal agreement that was signed back in 2018.
Municipality of Cumberland Mayor Rod Gilroy, Oxford Mayor Greg Henley and Amherst Mayor Robert Small sign a new intermunicipal agreement on emergency services. Darrell Cole – Municipality of Cumberland photo
Mayor Gilroy said the level of cooperation on emergency management is vital as the three municipal units understand the importance of a team approach when dealing with an emergency situation such as a major snowstorm or, as experienced in 2019 with Dorian and Fiona in 2022, a tropical storm.
“It’s a great day for us to be able to sign another agreement with our municipal friends in Amherst and Oxford,” Mayor Gilroy said. “This extends the work we’ve been doing together for many years. It’s reassuring to know that when we need it REMO is there and we are all on the same page when there’s an emergency.”
Oxford Mayor Greg Henley said everyone benefits when the three municipal units work together.
“It’s good for everybody in Cumberland County,” Henley said. “This is another example of how we are working more closely for the benefit of all residents. It’s much better than trying to do it yourself.”
The intermunicipal agreement provides the framework for a coordinated response to an emergency occurring within Cumberland County, or the surrounding area.
The agreement also sets out the makeup of the Regional Emergency Management Organization, the Regional Emergency Management Advisory Committee and the Regional Emergency Management Coordinator position.
“The Regional Emergency Management Organization brings the three municipalities together to prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies,” REMO coordinator Allen Cole said. “Its work includes developing emergency plans, supporting training and preparedness, and coordinating information and resources during major events. By working together, the municipalities can draw on shared resources and expertise to better support residents when an emergency affects the region.”