$8M loan expected to move forward for West Kelowna fire hall replacement

The results of West Kelowna’s Alternative Approval Process (AAP) show strong support for the Fire Hall #32 replacement project.

The city began the AAP process on Feb. 20 to seek elector assent to borrow up to $8 million to partially fund the project.

To defeat the borrowing, 10% or more of eligible electors would have needed to submit forms indicating their opposition to the proposal.

In a release issued by the city on Friday, only 68 elector response forms were submitted over the month-long AAP period. Eight invalid response forms were received, the city says.

Council can now consider proceeding with the certification process and approval of long-term borrowing, with no new tax increases to the West Kelowna community.

Council will review the matter during Tuesday, Mar. 26 meeting.

“After Council gives consideration and direction on next steps, the City of West Kelowna will develop the next stage of the project, including an upcoming opportunity for public input into the Detailed Design this spring/summer,” the release from the city says.

Why does the fire hall need to be replaced?

The current firehall is over 50 years old and beyond its service life. The city says it no longer complies with current operational and safety standards.

The city says the existing building also does not protect firefighters from contaminated gear and equipment and does not accommodate the apparatus used to protect the West Kelowna and Westbank First Nation communities.

If the borrowing is approved, the fire hall would be relocated from its current location on Olalla Road to a new site on Anders Road.

West Kelowna council settled on that location in June 2023.

The project will also include the integration of the Lakeview Heights Community Centre, park space and amenities including a sports court, playground and pickleball facilities.