By Mark Squibb
Witless Bay council approved a number of requests from its local volunteer fire department during the May public meeting held earlier this month.
Council approved the department’s request to have three members attend Fire School training and cover associated costs. That training was scheduled for May 25 thru to the 31st.
Council also gave the department approval to auction off two Drager self contained breathing apparatuses and four air bottles.
Town Manager Jennifer Aspell said the department had just acquired new equipment to replace the units being auctioned off.
Council also approved the purchase of 10 new uniforms at a maximum total cost of $2,000.
Councillor Ralph Carey said the department’s training regime is progressing well. He added the department is planning a thirtieth-anniversary ball this November.
In a previous meeting, Carey noted the department is also actively monitoring used equipment deals to make the most of available funds.
Since January 1, the department has responded to 114 calls for service, including four structure fires and three vehicle fires. Amongst those was a vehicle fire that spread to a structure.
The department boasts 29 members, plus Fire Chief Jack Gatherall.
In other council news, council contracted Martin’s Survey and Land Services Inc., to survey a plot of Crown land behind the Puffin Centre at a cost of $1,650 plus HST.
“This is a tiny piece of Crown land on back of the Puffin Centre that we have to have surveyed to include in our property,” explained Carey.
Council denied a request for road upgrades to Gallows Cove Road as Budget 2024 does not include funds for the requested upgrades.
Council did, however, approve a request for additional road signage cautioning motorists to slow down near the playground.
Council also issued a call for expressions of interest for a public hearing commissioner.
The successful applicant will preside over public hearings and relay the findings to council regarding proposed changes to the Town’s Municipal Plan and development regulations.
