City of Powell River Council will consider the formation of a committee to look into a new emergency services facility for the city.
Director of emergency services Terry Peters appeared at the Tuesday, June 18, committee of the whole meeting to outline the formation of a committee to examine the replacement of the main fire hall on Courtenay Street.
Peters said he was in front of the committee as a follow-up from the March 21, 2019, city council meeting where direction was given to prepare terms of reference and council’s consideration of an emergency services facility select advisory committee.
“Since that date I’ve had very good conversations within our city staff and the planning department, administration, our chief executive officer and our elected representative, councillor Maggie Hathaway,” said Peters. “We’ve also reached out to other communities that have been in the same position, where referendums have happened, and we’ve received good advice. We’re on the right track, from what we’re finding.”
Peters said formation of the committee is the process to get the public education process started and engaging the community in preparation for a potential referendum with regard to the emergency services facility.
Hathaway said this is a good way to include the public in some of the decision-making.
“I’m sure we’ll attract people who will have some valuable input,” she said.
In a report to council, Peters stated that in December 2013, council passed the following resolution: that the vacant property at 7104 Barnet Street be endorsed as the future location of an emergency services facility and that all consideration and care be taken to ensure the retention of sensitive environmental areas and that positive environmental enhancements be included in the planning and construction of the facility.
The terms of reference for the committee indicates the requirement for a diverse membership with a demonstrated interest in the future of the community, balancing an interest in fire services, professional qualifications, and skill or experience in fire service and building and development.
Public communication and engagement will be a key process to ensuring the success of this project.
Council has approved $30,000 for committee support. The recommended committee structure is for one councillor and eight members of the public to serve.
The committee of the whole sent the matter to city council for adoption.
