Fire training function studied

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star  Published: January 08, 2011 12:00 PM

A smouldering debate at the North Okanagan Regional District may be extinguished.  While the process to allow the City of Vernon to possibly leave the regional fire training centre service will continue, participants will also consider ways to keep the function intact.  “Perhaps we can address the concerns of the city,” said Jim Garlick, Coldstream director.  Among the reasons the city has issued an intent to withdraw from the function is the costs of the program and the fact that some of the courses being offered are not certified.  Jack Gilroy, a Vernon director, says the city has a training officer on staff at its fire department and $55,000 a year could be saved if it no longer participates in the regional training centre service.  “It’s a budget thing. It’s about money,” he said, adding, though, that he is willing to consider changes to the current service so the city can remain involved.  “It doesn’t hurt to talk.”  NORD staff will put together a report on the potential implications if the city does withdraw.  “We need a report on the differing scenarios and the impact on the remaining participants,” said Garlick.  A report from city administration about the fire training centre will also be presented to the regional board.  Patrick Nicol, a Vernon director, is urging all sides to work co-operatively and find some common ground.  “The withdrawal notice is real so the process we have initiated has to happen sooner than later. It can’t go on forever,” he said. “This issue impacts all of us so it should be a priority.” NORD staff expects to have a report before directors by early February.