AAP used for fire hall replacement project

The City of West Kelowna will use an alternative approval process (AAP) to get public approval to borrow up to $8 million for the Fire Hall #32 replacement project.

The AAP period will take place from Feb. 15 through March 15, 2024, with more information on the city’s website at westkelownacity.ca/aap.

If, after the 30-day AAP period, less than 10 per cent of the approximately 28,098 electors, or less than approximately 2,810 people, submit an elector response form to the city, then council can proceed with the certification process, and approval of the long-term borrowing would occur with no new tax increases to the West Kelowna community.

Council has directed staff to ensure that no new tax increases will result from the project, including for long-term borrowing.

“Fire Hall #32 is 53 years old and well beyond its useful life as a protective services facility,” a city news release stated. “The facility also no longer complies with current operational and safety standards. Several studies, plans and documents demonstrate its poor, unsafe condition, and its failures to meet current regulations. Further, the facility does not protect firefighters from contaminated gear and equipment, nor does it accommodate the apparatus used to protect the West Kelowna and Westbank First Nation communities.”

“Our firefighters, who protect our community around the clock, need an operational facility that meets regulatory standards for fire and life safety,” Mayor Gord Milsom said. “The current Fire Hall #32 is well past its lifespan, the building is well undersized and leaks, firefighters are stationed in portables, and some vehicles and equipment are housed in pop-up tents outside the firehall. Council has assured the public that no new tax increases will result, and if the public is not opposed to long-term borrowing there is nothing they need to do. If you support this important Fire Hall #32 Replacement Project, as ouncil unanimously does, then residents need to do nothing more,” Milsom said.

The project also includes integrating the Lakeview Heights Community Centre, park area space and amenities and preliminary design renderings are located on the city’s website: westkelownacity.ca/firehall32.