A controversial 10-year proposal to revamp Thunder Bay Fire and Rescue is coming up on Monday evening at City Council. The $90,000 Strategic Master Fire Plan has already been criticized by the firefighters’ union for some of the recommendations being made by the consultant.
The Professional Firefighters Association is against the proposed cuts to services in Westfort, Northwood, and McIntyre wards, along with closing the Vickers and North Central fire halls and consolidating them in the Central and Balmoral area.
“There has to be alternative ways to find budget efficiencies without putting people’s lives at risk or jeopardizing the on-the-job safety of our 205 members,” says Association president Dennis Brescacin.
The consultants, Emergency Management and Training, did not wish to be interviewed about the study before it is presented to Council.
City official Mark Smith stresses the consultants’ report is only in draft form. It will be presented to Councillors for their input, and will then take any suggestions and come back with final recommendations in February.
