The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) is actively seeking public input regarding the potential expansion of fire services to Bessborough and the neighboring rural areas of Farmington and Sunrise Valley in Electoral Area D. This study is a direct response to expressed community interest. It is a crucial, early step in assessing the viability of expanded fire protection in the area and determining public interest.
The initiative stems from a petition presented to then Chair Hiebert of the PRRD in 2022, signed by 27 residents of Electoral Area D residing near the Bessborough Landfill. The petitioners, noting that the Bessborough Landfill receives fire protection from the Dawson Creek Fire Department (DCFD), requested similar protection for rural residents living between the landfill and the city.
To conduct a comprehensive engagement process and assessment, the PRRD has partnered with FireWise Consulting, a firm with extensive regional experience in fire service reviews. The feasibility study will evaluate existing conditions, desired service levels and potential costs associated with expanding fire protection services in the area.
To ensure thorough community engagement, the PRRD and FireWise are providing multiple ways to engage:
Interactive ‘Have Your Say’ page
Residents can learn more about the feasibility study, subscribe for updates and ask questions at haveyoursay.prrd.bc.ca/bfses
In-person town hall sessions
Two town hall sessions will be held on September 24 and 26, 2024 from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Farmington Community Hall located at 4794 Parkland Road
Community survey
A short survey is available until September 26 for area residents and businesses to provide feedback.
There are several ways to participate in the survey:
- Online: Visit haveyoursay.prrd.bc.ca/bfses to complete the survey online
- Pick-up a hard copy: Hard copies of the survey are available at the PRRD offices in Dawson Creek (1981 Alaska Avenue) and Fort St. John (9505 100 Street)
- Mail-in a hard copy: To request a hard copy survey by mail (including prepaid return postage) contact communications@prrd.bc.ca or call 250-784-3200
The feasibility study will assess appropriate fire protection district boundaries and develop costing estimates for potential service models. FireWise will provide a detailed report outlining data, standards, regulations and other materials to identity potential fire protection service models, feasibility and associated costs.
The PRRD greatly appreciates the community’s involvement in this engagement and looks forward to collaborating with residents to explore the potential for expanded fire services in this area.
Quick Facts
- The study covers Bessborough, Farmington and Sunrise Valley in Electoral Area D
- FireWise Consulting has completed fire service reviews in Pouce Coupe, Tumbler Ridge and Chetwynd
- Bessborough is located approximately 24 kilometers northwest of Dawson Creek
- Bessborough is surrounded by Sunrise Valley (north) and the Kiskatinaw River (west)
- Farmington and Sunrise Valley are located to the north of Bessborough
- Survey is open until September 26, 2024
For more information, please visit haveyoursay.prrd.bc.ca/bfses or call 250-784-3200
