Hydrant review on tap for GVAC

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: June 13, 2009 12:00 PM

One politician is hoping fire hydrants will flush in big savings for his residents. The Greater Vernon Advisory Committee has agreed to look at financial issues surrounding installing hydrants after interest was expressed by Mike Gavinchuk, BX-Swan Lake director. “This will affect every person that buys fire insurance in Area B,” he said. Most of the rural area doesn’t have fire hydrants and as a result, that leads to higher fire insurance costs for property owners. Gavinchuk believes installation of hydrants in existing neighbourhoods could save some properties up to $500 a year in insurance. “If we can tell (most of) them we are saving them $150 to $200, it’s a plus,” he said.

Currently, GVAC doesn’t actively install hydrants but if a development occurs, the developer is responsible for installing the devices. Among the issues that must be considered are the cost of installation and whether sufficient water lines and pressure exist to handle the demands of hydrants. If a hydrant program were created, the cost would be absorbed by taxpayers, and that prospect raises some concern. “What ever savings you get on insurance may be wiped out by an increase in taxes,” said Mike Macnabb, BX-Silver Star director. It’s not known when the staff report on finances will be completed. “I want this fast-tracked. I don’t want this to carry on,” said Gavinchuk of his push for hydrants.