Council considers fire plan

Published: May 23, 2009 12:00 PM Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star

All eyes will be on Vernon council as it finally takes a stand on a divisive and emotional concept. Staff’s proposed fire service plan will be on the agenda during Monday’s council meeting and it’s anticipated that its seven members will make a final decision. “The plan is there and in council’s hands to provide direction to staff,” said Mayor Wayne Lippert. The plan contains recommendations on a variety of fire rescue services, but the most contentious clause is removing autonomy from the Okanagan Landing volunteer fire hall and stationing two paid firefighters there. Council has been inundated with letters and e-mails over amalgamating administration of Vernon’s two fire halls, and a recent public meeting was extremely vocal. Each side has contested the information provided by the other, including response times and how much more unionized firefighters will cost.

Lippert will not reveal how he may vote Monday. “I have had discussions with all of the parties involved and I want them all to work together as firefighters in an environment that enhances public safety,” he said. “What ever council decides, both halls have done a very good job and that needs to be recognized.”

In making recommendations to council, Vernon fire chief Jeff Carlisle has emphasized what he sees as a need for consistent service across the community. “I hope council will approve the performance standards and we can then proceed with implementation of council’s direction,” he said, adding that the plan calls for volunteers to remain involved. That is also the view of Brent Bond, Vernon Professional Firefighters Association president. “The fire service is about safety and if council doesn’t proceed with this plan, the only loser will be the citizens of Vernon,” he said.“When you take the emotion out of it, this is all about safety.”

But Ed Forslund, Landing fire chief, opposes the plan, saying that his volunteer crew has served the needs of residents for years. “I hope council has looked at all of the details of the plan and that it’s an expensive plan,” he said. “I don’t feel that the call volume warrants full-time people being here.”