By Mark Squibb
Witless Bay council has approved a smattering of small purchases by the fire department to make sure its members are ready to answer any calls.
The approvals were made at last month’s public council meeting, held April 18.
Council approved an annual flow test service at a cost of $2,200 plus HST. Councillor Jacob Hayden explained the test is an annual maintenance check to ensure the trucks are all up to par.
Council also approved an annual inspection fee policy. Councillor Gerard Dunne said the new policy will enable the Town to charge a fee to businesses requiring fire inspections. Life safety inspection requests will still be provided free of charge.
Town Manager Jennfier Aspell said Fire Chief Jack Gatherall often receives requests from businesses to conduct fire inspections which can, depending on the business, prove complex and timely.
“And so, moving forward, we’ll be charging a fee for that,” said Aspell.
Council also approved the purchase of $515 worth of new rescue equipment.
Councillor Ralph Carey said the equipment is necessary for the operation of the fire truck.
The department will also get a dryer for its bunker gear, thanks to a $667, plus HST, purchase.
The dryer will dry up to three suits, including boots, helmets, and gloves, at a time. Currently the department can only dry half a suit at a time.
Council also voted to auction off a 40-foot alumni ladder.
“This is a ladder that the department hasn’t used in at least 10 years and has been stored in our garage, and it’s just in the way,” said Hayden. “We have no use for it and so the department is wishing to get rid of it.”
Council placed a minimum bid requirement of $500 on the ladder.
In lieu of a fire department committee report, councillor Carey read a letter prepared by Chief Gatherall which said training sessions are going well and the department continues to prioritize training. Gatherall also noted the department is monitoring used equipment sales to make the most of Town funds.
The department has responded to 68 calls for service since January 1.
