Readers write -- Lack of sprinklers in the new fire hall questioned.

On October 14th, 2008, at a public meeting of Coldstream Council, I raised the question about the lack of sprinklers in the new fire hall for two reasons:

1. Incidents which happened in the fire hall.
2 The fact that the fire department had raised the issue back in January.

I asked the direct question: Was this a budget cut?" Answer: "No, the sprinklers are not required."

On October 19th (The Morning Star) Glen Taylor admits that it was, in fact, a budget cut and goes on to say that the sprinkler system can be put in at a later date.

It is a fact that a sprinkler system can be installed cheaper during construction than after the building is completed. Having done some research, the true cost of the system is closer to $40,000 than the $70,000 quoted.

I find that this Council approved the spending of the landscaping around the new fire hall and the construction presently being done to the old fire hall to be a higher priority than spending the $40,000 on a 2.8 million fire hall for a sprinkler system for safety reasons totally unacceptable.

Mr Taylor, why did you tell me it was not a budget cut in a public meeting and then say the exact opposite to the press when you were interviewed? Where is the accountability?

Sincerely

John Hegler.

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