A vote to expand Kimberley’s fire department into the surrounding rural areas was voted down, with some residents citing an increased tax burden.
Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) officials say the vote ended with 63 yes and 120 no votes.
RDEK Board Chair Rob Gay says residents liked the idea of a professional fire service, but the decision ultimately came down to costs.
“We heard from some residents who would see savings on their home insurance of 50 per cent, while another would save about $20,” said Gay.
“People were asking if their savings would be more or less than what the tax would go up. The tax was quite substantial, for the average home, we figured it would be $863.”
If approved, the Kimberley Fire Department would have one additional firetruck, expanding the service to the St. Mary Lake Road and Wycliffe areas.
“We have similar contracts with other fire departments to service rural areas because while they might not be able to save the home, they have the ability to go in and save a life,” said Gay.
“Volunteer fire departments may not be certified to go into a home during a structure fire. ”
While residents in Kimberley’s surrounding rural areas may not be protected by a professional fire service, they can still take steps to protect their properties.
“We really advocate for the BC FireSmart program. It’s about what you can do as a homeowner to help guard your home against wildfire,” said Gay.
“There are a lot of resources there and the Regional District is more than willing to help people with that.”
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