Public engagement regarding City of Powell River’s proposed new fire hall/emergency services facility is now underway. A survey seeking to understand residents’ views and knowledge of the project was launched on July 5, according to a media release from the city.
“With this survey, we open the discussion with residents and the real work begins in earnest,” stated Jim Agius, chair of the Fire Hall/Emergency Services Facility Select Advisory Committee. “We can’t stress enough how important public engagement will be in the coming months. We need their input on the current and future emergency response needs of the city, and the health and safety of our emergency personnel and residents now, and for years to come. It all starts with this survey.”
Established in October 2019, the committee has a mandate to:
• Review the technical decision-making process and assessments completed to-date which have established both the need for a new facility and site location
• Provide advice to council on concept designs for a new emergency services facility
• Make recommendations on funding strategies and approval process for the project
• Identify potential future community benefits
• Coordinate opportunities to provide the public with information and gather feedback
In addition to the survey, opportunities for public input will include in-person neighbourhood consultation sessions in September and October. Public engagement will be completed by the end of October 2021, according to the release.
The city is proposing to replace the aging Fire Hall No. 1 on Courtenay Street, which was built in 1952 as a temporary facility. According to the city, it is no longer suitable to meet the needs of standard fire rescue.
In March 2021, city council approved a shared portion of the Public Works Yard at Duncan Street and Ontario Avenue as the location for a new emergency facility.
The survey is available at Participate Powell River.
