New fire protection agreement in place between city and TNRD

The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) has entered into a five-year contract with the City of Merritt for providing fire protection services in portions of Electoral Areas “M” (Beautiful Nicola Valley – North) and “N” (Beautiful Nicola Valley – South).

This fire protection service area includes 772 registered addresses in Lower Nicola, Miller Estates, the north end of Coldwater Road, and areas east of Merritt including Nicola Ranch and Harmon Estates. The five-year contract was approved by the TNRD Board on May 16, 2024, and approved by Merritt City Council on April 23, 2024.

All fire responses are based out of the Merritt Firehall at 1799 Nicola Avenue. Merritt Fire Rescue will provide an exterior-level response to structure fires and structure defense, which is similar to all other TNRD fire protection service areas.

“Merritt Fire Rescue is honoured to extend our fire protection services to residents of the TNRD. Our team is dedicated to safeguarding life and property, ensuring rapid and effective responses to emergencies, minimizing damage, injury, and loss,” said Dave Tomkinson, Chief of Merritt Fire Rescue.

“We appreciate this agreement with the City of Merritt. We know Merritt Fire Rescue is dedicated, well-trained, and well-equipped to respond to emergencies beyond city limits,” said Jason Tomlin, TNRD Manager of Fire Protection Services.

In 2024, affected TNRD property owners will pay $48.28 per $100,000 of assessed value for fire protection as a result of this agreement, which is in line with the 15 other TNRD fire protection areas. This tax rate is a 16% decrease compared to 2023 for affected property owners.

To understand long-term priorities for property owners within the fire protection area, the TNRD has launched a short survey which is open until July 31, 2024. Respondents can be entered into a draw for one of three prizes, including one of two gift cards for local businesses in the Nicola Valley and a FireSmart™ prize pack.