PRRD seeks UBCM funding for fire equipment for second time

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The regional district is submitting a second application to a multi-million dollar fund for new fire equipment in Charlie Lake and Moberly Lake. 

During the October 2nd meeting, the board of directors of the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) okayed a $5.75 million grant application to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) Strategic Priorities Fund.

According to a report from staff, the grant – if approved – would go towards purchasing a new fire engine, water tender and a heavy wildland truck for the Charlie Lake Fire Department, as well as a fire engine, command vehicle and used mini-pumper for the Moberly Lake Fire Department. 

The PRRD had previously submitted an application to the same fund for the same reasons in June, after which UBCM had requested the wording of the application to be amended to include “the regional board confirms the willingness to provide overall grant management and support any cost overruns associated with the project.”

“This additional language within the recommendation is a requirement for the grant application to be considered complete and eligible for funding,” staff explained in a report. 

According to the October 2nd report, the total cost of the six vehicles is approximately $5.75 million.