Bancroft’s fire department is operating well, according to a consultant’s report, but future investments are needed as the municipality weighs competing infrastructure priorities.
Representatives from Emergency Management Group (EMG) presented four options to council (Tuesday) outlining four unique visions for the future of the department.
Council received the report as information only but appeared to agree the fourth option presented would be the most logical way to go.
It will be up to the incoming members after the election to hash out what that would look like and how much it would cost.
The town’s general manager, Andra Kauffeldt, said the next council will need to weigh fire department investments with other infrastructure needs, including the replacement of Station Street Bridge at a cost of $5 million.
“We can’t ignore that for another full council term. We know we’re going to have to replace the Egan Creek Bridge. The study on that is coming to you probably next month and that also comes with a $1.5 million price tag.”
She added the town has financial commitments underway for projects totaling nearly $2 million across numerous departments.
“We need to replace that pumper (fire truck) at Dungannon Station. A new truck has an estimated price tag of $1 million.”
Option four puts a focus first on the fire department’s highest-priority health and safety, operational and accommodation needs. It calls for improvements to be staggered as funding becomes available, reducing the need for one large capital commitment.
Option two came in at a cost of $7 to $8 million to address current space and operational needs within the existing facilities. Option three was the most expensive at anywhere from $17 to $18 million to build a new Bancroft station.
Mayor Paul Jenkins said the town has a top-notch fire department that does a great job with existing equipment.
“I think we are very fortunate to have the leadership we have in the department along with a great group of volunteers.”
More information is available here on the town’s website.
