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CSRD considering 2 buildings as it looks to replace North Shuswap fire hall

Scotch Creek/Lee Creek Fire Hall destroyed in Bush Creek East wildfire
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Sean Coubrough, CSRD deputy regional fire chief, stands in front of the remains of the Scotch Creek/Lee Creek fire hall after the Bush Creek East wildfire burned through the community. (File photo)

As it looks to replace the Scotch Creek/Lee Creek fire hall, the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) is considering constructing two facilities.

Replacement of the fire hall, destroyed last summer in the Bush Creek East wildfire, will be discussed at the regional district’s committee of the whole meeting scheduled for Wednesday morning, Jan. 17. The meeting agenda includes a written report from CSRD community and protective services general manager Derek Sutherland.

“The Bush Creek East Fire was the most devastating disaster to hit the CSRD,” begins Sutherland in his report. “In all, 176 structures were lost including the Scotch Creek/Lee Creek… Fire Hall and Community Centre.

“The building was a cultural and social hub in the community and the loss has significant social effects on the community.”

For the rebuilding process, Sutherland said CSRD staff is considering the option of splitting the community services building from the fire hall “to provide better service for each function.” This, he explained, would necessitate purchasing an additional property in the area, as well as the creation of a service which would require an assent voting process.

“The fire service area has sufficient Capital Reserves that it could buy property for a new Fire Hall, if required,” said Sutherland. “However, there may be future tax increases to fund capital infrastructure repairs/replacements in the immediate to longer term.”

Sutherland noted splitting the projects would delay the rebuilding of a community centre, or may result in the lack of a community centre if that were the desire of the electorate.

Alternatively, staff can work to rebuild the facility as it was, with a joint fire hall and community meeting space.

“In either case, Staff will work through a community engagement process to get the right fit for the community,” said Sutherland, noting staff are waiting on guidance regarding insurance proceeds that will be available to replace the fire hall.

The committee of the whole meeting begins at 9:30 a.m. at in the CSRD boardroom.

Read more: North Shuswap firefighter unwavering after losing home, fire hall to wildfire

Read more: Wildfire recovery in North Shuswap may take several years



Lachlan Labere

About the Author: Lachlan Labere

Editor, Salmon Arm Observer
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