PUBLIC CONSULTATION #2: May 11, 2010

The next meeting to discuss the future of Fire Station No. 5 will occur on May 11, 2010 from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM in the Lower Hall of the South Calgary Community Association building (3130 16 ST SW). Click here for a map.

Alderman Mar has set up a follow-up meeting, through the South Calgary Community Association, to present the findings of the work promised from the initial Fire Station #5 meeting. Administration was to review alternate sites and layouts, in addition to weighing the pros and cons of each. That study was completed and will now be delivered back to the community.

We are all looking forward to this meeting because there are still a number of issues that must be addressed:

• Our proposed alternative location is currently for sale. This remains a possible location for a new building.

• $15,250,000 is being set aside to this project according to the City of Calgary Infrastructure Site. However, during the last meeting we heard from the Logistics and Infrastructure Services group at the Calgary Fire Department that the project cost was going to be $8,000,000. Is there not enough money in the budget to relocate the Fire Station to a better location while preserving desperately needed green space?

• With Fire Station #5 featured prominently in a recent issue of the City of Calgary Staff Newsletter (March 2010, pictured above), "Taking Pride in No. 5", why would we allow the removal of this beloved building?

• Other cities, like Montreal, have found innovative ways to incorporate historical architecture in a densely populated area while keeping modern fire safety regulations in mind. Click here to take a look at their solution. Notice how the firefighters' personal vehicles are parked so that the space needed is minimized.

• If this project were to proceed, what is the greater plan for 14 ST SW as a Neighbourhood Boulevard as outlined in the 2009 Municipal Development Plan. Could traffic easing and beautification measures be incorporated now as part of this project?

Thank you for your continued interest in this issue. We look forward to seeing you Tuesday night!