By Erin Knutson

The City of Fernie approved Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 2533 during its September 9 council meeting at the seniors’ centre, following a lengthy debate and heated opposition from members.

Director of Finance Bryn Burditt underscored the project’s significance during the July 8 council meeting, stating, “The Fire Hall project is not just an investment, it’s a crucial commitment to our community’s safety.”

Primary concerns raised by councillors included the potential use of taxpayer dollars from reserve funds, the lack of a referendum for public consultation, and the uncertainty of the funding sources. Some councillors likened the situation to signing a blank cheque, expressing discomfort with committing to the $16 million loan for the project.

Councillors Tracey Audia Kelly, Harsh Ramadass and Ted Shoesmith voted against the motion, with Coun. Kelly abstaining from the vote entirely.

The budget stands at $16 million, with the city slated to contribute $9 million. According to city staff, the investment will enhance emergency services and prepare Fernie for the future.

Staff assured the council that they had done their due diligence and were confident in moving forward with the loan, which would involve seeking grant monies from the Canada Community Building Fund – Strategic Priorities Fund (SPF).

“The SPF has a history of funding fire hall projects, with announcements regarding successful applications expected eight to nine months after the intake period closes,” said Burditt, who was optimistic about Fernie’s position as a grant recipient.

Ideally, the city would secure $7 million from the SPF stream. Should the application be denied, the city will have to borrow $12 million to meet project demands, according to staff reports.

Currently, $5 million is slated for borrowing, which is divided between $3.6 million from city reserves and a $1.4 million reimbursement from the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK).

To ensure the city’s commitment to project costs and any additions during the construction of the fire hall, staff prioritized alignment with SPF stipulations following a resolution on July 15, to provide reassurance to the community.

“Maintaining transparency and accountability is vital in our financial undertakings,” said Burditt, who was adamant about the efficacy of the financing.

The province authorized the Loan Authorization Bylaw promptly, paving the way for the completion of the application for funds and the initiation of interim funding from the Municipal Finance Authority (MFA), which would enable construction to commence.

“The significance of this project goes beyond the fire department’s infrastructure. It’s a commitment to community growth and safety, aiming not just to house firefighting equipment but also to act as a centre for community engagement and fire prevention education,” said Burditt.

With the adoption of the Loan Authorization Bylaw, Fernie is well-positioned for a successful grant application. A sentiment echoed by those in favour, as the timing aligned, allowing Fernie to act accordingly.

“This isn’t just about building a new fire hall; it’s about investing in the future of Fernie,” said Burditt.

Coun. Kyle Hamilton mentioned that some public consultation had taken place at various points leading up to the adoption of the bylaw.

“We can’t keep kicking it down the road; we have been elected to show leadership, and we are here to move business communications forward,” he said.

Mayor Nic Milligan acknowledged the division in the community regarding the decision.

“I’ve lost a lot of sleep, people refuse to come to council meetings for fear of being victimized afterwards – it’s created a deep division in the community, and that’s regrettable because we have been tasked with making the call,” he said.

According to Milligan, several people were vocal about the opportunity to build a generational fire hall for $3.6 million, provided the funding works out as expected.

“It’s an exceptional opportunity, and it’s unfortunate to have cold feet,” he said.

e-KNOW file photo

e-KNOW

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