With snow on the ground and a swift chill in the air, we're reminded that winter is once again upon us.
We've installed our winter tires, shovelled our sidewalks, and braced for the cold months that lie ahead. All in all, we do all that we can to stay warm, and more importantly, to stay safe. Thankfully we've got some very dedicated and honourable individuals in our community to help us with the latter, and that's what I'd like to talk about today.
I've read with concern in recent months some of the comments that have been posted online and in the newspaper regarding the Innisfail Fire Department and what some have perceived as discontent within. While I can neither speak on behalf of the fire department nor comment on internal personnel matters, I can tell you that when it comes to dealing with public safety there are no easy decisions.
Nonetheless, it's our job on town council to separate emotion from reality, and to differentiate wants from needs to ensure the town remains fiscally responsible. We're the ones accountable for ensuring the town's finances are properly managed, and that each department has the best staff and resources in place to do so. I can tell you with conviction that every decision we make is completely objective and impartial, and considers the implications on not just one department or individual but the entire community at large.
At the end of the day, however, safety comes at a price, and for 2017, that figure exceeds $2.5 million. With a budget that large, and in times of economic uncertainty, that means all of our protective services — not just the fire department — have been subjected to fiscal review.
Under the town's 2017 Protective Services budget, police services came in at $1.6 million, which included a $250,000 increase to the town's RCMP contract; fire services came in at $700,000, of which half was earmarked toward remuneration; and bylaw enforcement came in at $230,000. Given the difficult economic times, finding efficiencies in all of these departments — and others — is more important than ever.
In the fire department's case, we're pleased to be able to do this with what we proudly consider to be the best firefighters in the province. Their response times are exceptional, and their commitment and dedication to their colleagues and community is exemplary. We take nothing for granted, and are continually grateful for the work they do.
If you've got any questions, comments or concerns, my door is always open. I'm at town hall Tuesday and Thursday mornings, and can be reached via email at [email protected].
