Fire protection services returning to sections of Lower Nicola thanks to new partnership

MERRITT – The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) announced they have partnered with the City of Merritt to have Merritt Fire Rescue provide services to portions of the Lower Nicola area, effective July 4.

“Under the interim agreement, Merritt Fire Rescue will provide structural fire protection services to 482 address in Lower Nicola and Miller Estates,” said Jason Tomlin, Manager of Fire Protection Services. “This will provide coverage for 76 per cent of the 634 addresses that were impacted by the recent announcement of fire protection services being suspended in the area.”

The TNRD said those properties in Sunshine Valley, Canford, and nearby areas that are not covered by this interim agreement will be issued a partial tax refund.

“Due to distance from their fire hall, this is the maximum coverage area Merritt Fire Rescue is able to provide at this time. We recognize that a portion of TNRD properties that were previously provided fire protection are not included in this coverage area.”

According to officials, this agreement is effective until at least December 31, at that time they will continue discussing plans with the City of Merritt and the Lower Nicola Indian Band.

“The TNRD also continues to assess long-term options for fire protection services in the Lower Nicola area, including those properties that are not covered under this interim agreement. As part of this, the TNRD is assessing the feasibility of a TNRD-administered fire hall for the Lower Nicola area.”