RDNO responds to Vernon leaving the fire training centre

The Regional District of North Okanagan has taken to social media to respond to a Vernon City Council motion made Monday to withdraw from the North Okanagan Fire Training Centre function.

The following statement has been posted on the RDNO Facebook page: “The Regional District of North Okanagan understands that the City of Vernon is considering a repeal of the Intermunicipal Fire Training Centre Agreement and related lease.”

While further discussions with all of the partners are required, as the facility owner, the RDNO would like to assure the public and North Okanagan fire departments, that we are looking into options to ensure the continued management of, and delivery of training at this facility,” the statement said.

Mayor Victor Cumming told council the resources could be more effectively used by the city to train its own firefighters.

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The following news release was issued by the City of Vernon at 5:35 p.m. Nov. 10:

CITY OF VERNON TO WITHDRAW FROM INTER-MUNICIPAL FIRE TRAINING CENTRE SERVICE

During its Regular Meeting of November 9, City Council directed Administration to proceed with the process to withdraw the City of Vernon and Vernon Fire Rescue Services (VFRS) from the Inter-Municipal Fire Training Centre (FTC) Service.

The City has been a long-time partner within the FTC, along with the District of Coldstream, Village of Lumby, Township of Spallumcheen, City of Armstrong, City of Enderby, and the Regional District of North Okanagan.

Since 2012, Vernon Fire Rescue Services has been deemed the manager of the Centre and its operation.

“The management of the Inter-Municipal Fire Training Centre is an onerous and time consuming role,” said Mayor Victor Cumming. “Over the last several months, it has become abundantly clear that our Fire Rescue Service and Administration resources would be better used supporting public education on fire prevention, and training our fire officers and auxiliary members within the City.”

By withdrawing from the Inter-Municipal FTC Service, VFRS will be able to redirect its resources to City of Vernon priorities, including the continued implementation of the Eight Year Strategic Plan 2018-2025.

“Vernon Fire Rescue is fully capable of achieving and maintaining the necessary training required for its career and auxiliary firefighters without retaining the management responsibilities of the Inter-Municipal Fire Training Centre,” said Fire Chief David Lind. “By withdrawing from the FTC Service, we will be able to redirect our attention to fulfilling Council-identified priorities around fire prevention, training and public education, and we will be able to better serve the City of Vernon and its residents.”