A Greater Vernon neighbourhood will soon be able to call firefighters during an emergency.
The Regional District of North Okanagan board has given three readings to a bylaw that would allow the Kalamalka Lakeview Drive area to contract the City of Vernon for fire protection.
“This is a petition-led service,” said David Sewell, RDNO chief administrative officer.
The area, which is south of the Kalamalka Lake lookout, currently has no fire protection.
“The costs have gone to the electors in the area (for consideration) and greater than 50 per cent have said they agree to the service,” said Sewell of the 39 parcels of land with 68 owners.
Under the five-year agreement, the fee payable to the city for the service is $1.50 per $1,000 of improved assessed value.
“It’s standard when services are charged in other jurisdictions,” said director Juliette Cunningham.
The service is for structure fires only and does not include wildfires, motor vehicle accidents or first medical responders.
The service will be provided out of the downtown Vernon fire hall although the Predator Ridge fire hall may be used once that facility is open.
