County Preps for New Shinimicas Fire Hall

Insurance coverage will allow the Shinimicas Fire Department to rebuild from the fire that destroyed their hall, trucks, and firefighting equipment in April.

Cumberland County’s fire coordinator told the municipal council last night that insurance underwriters approved coverage of $441,000 to replace the building, just over $1.1 million for trucks, and over $707,000 for equipment.

However, Mike Carter says he disagreed with the description of a new building, fearing it does not take into account the most up-to-date code requirements. Carter says $500,000 would be a more appropriate figure and he has advised the insurers of his concerns.

Meanwhile, the Shinimicas firefighters want to use the opportunity to expand their facility. Carter says they would like to consider something like the newer Wallace Fire Hall, but the current site poses a big roadblock, as it is not big enough to accommodate a larger floor plan.

An adjacent land owner offered to sell a piece of land but it would still leave the department short of property to meet building regulations.

They are considering a second offer for two acres about .5 kilometres down the road. Carter says the price is $2,500 but would require substantial additional costs to clear the land, survey and migrate the property, install a septic system and paving, all of which could cost more than $46,000.

Council asked why the department wants to expand and Carter said he would rather have the department meet with council to hear the details first hand. 

Councillor Joe van Vulpen said the former fire hall could not properly house the department’s rescue boat. He also noted they wanted more community space which might facilitate fundraising activities.

Council agreed to invite Shinimicas officials to meet on August 19th. They hope an early agreement can be reached with a new facility completed by February.

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