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Hastings Highlands votes to restructure fire services 

At a July 17 meeting , Hastings Highlands council voted to restructure the fire services in the area. 

Two options of restructuring the current fire service delivery model were explored. The first option of the fire service delivery model would have involved “maintaining the status quo”, replacing three fire stations and renovating three fire stations.

The second option was the pick, which involves restructuring the existing fire service delivery model, reducing to three stations from six – although three are currently not fully operational, and relocating two stations.

A public information session to learn more about the proposed restructuring was held in late May. A screening of the fire department’s presentation to council explained the two options.

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At Wednesdays council meeting, one constituent wrote in the public comment period regarding the fire station, with concerns related to public consultation. Earlier in the year, council discussed what adequate public consultation regarding the fire station review would be.

Consultation included hosting a public meeting and information session, implementing and advertising  a ‘Have your say survey’, putting a public notice on the home page of their website, advertising on social media, as well as a poster on the municipal building /library entrance.

The resident acknowledged steps that were taken, but expressed concern about lack of follow up.

“Looking to submissions received, most of the concerned residents are from Lake Saint Peter. Perhaps council may consider engaging the public on this matter at least once before a final decision is put forward.”

According to the correspondence, the municipality had received 20 submissions, 13 of those preferred the first option.

A link to some FAQ’s about the station review can be found here:

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