Photo by B. Shakyaver
Bluewater Council received a letter at their meeting on Monday (February 5th) from the Fire Certification Council declining their application to receive funds for firefighter training.
Deputy Mayor John Becker criticized the decision, and general lack of funding for volunteers.
He highlighted the disparity in funding, emphasizing that the allocated amount per firefighter was inadequate to cover even basic expenses like gas for attending training courses. Bluewater didn’t meet the criteria set for smaller fire departments, which left them ineligible for the grant.
CAO Spence-Bannerman acknowledged the council’s efforts to seek clarification on their eligibility, and highlighted recent discussions with the solicitor general regarding firefighter certifications and lack of funding.
Councilor Tyler Hessel echoed the sentiment of financial strain on municipal services, emphasizing the need to explore avenues for cost-saving measures in the maintenance of firefighting equipment.
Written by: B. Shakyaver