Decision on backburner

Published: May 26, 2009 7:00 PM Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star The heated debate over fire services in Vernon is being allowed to smoulder. Council decided Monday to defer a decision on the proposed fire services plan until June 8. Key to the document is stripping the Okanagan Landing fire hall of its autonomy and stationing paid, full-time firefighters there with the current volunteers. “It has now become an us-and-them attitude and delaying a decision is causing that situation,” said Brent Bond, Vernon Professional Firefighters Association president. “The process has gone on for almost two years and delaying does nothing but delay increased service to the public.” The union and city administration insist that the business plan will improve response times in the Landing and provide an equitable level of service to all parts of Vernon.However, the Okanagan Landing Firefighters Association, which has a contract with the city to fight fires in the Landing, says the number of calls doesn’t warrant the addition of paid firefighters at this time.

And Landing chief Ed Forslund is pleased that council did not take action Monday. “I am happy council is studying the issue hard so it can make an informed decision,” he said. While he admits the last few months have been emotional on both sides, Forslund isn’t concerned that the negative comments will continue. “There has to be some closure to this and we’re confident council will make a decision that is best for the community,” he said.

Jeff Carlisle, Vernon fire chief, would have preferred council make a decision on his business plan Monday. “It appears that council needs to get more comfortable with the information before them,” he said. “They represent the people and it’s their role to set policy.” But Carlisle continues to stand behind the proposals outlined in the business plan. “It’s realistic to meet the needs of the community,” he said.

The move to defer a decision came after a request from Mayor Wayne Lippert. “Council needs more time to look through this document. This decision will impact the community, not just a service,” he said. “The fire service helps build a community and neigbourhoods.”Coun. Jack Gilroy is frustrated that no final outcome occurred Monday. “It’s been for months (of discussion) and it’s time for council to make a decision,” he said. “Chief Carlisle has done all of the homework. I can’t believe we keep putting things off.” Coun. Bob Spiers, though, disagrees that council is refusing to tackle the matter. “Council has to take it’s time and make sure the plan is appropriate,” he said. “Nothing in the business plan would come into affect until 2010 so two weeks shouldn’t matter.”