The unfortunate issues surrounding administrative changes at the Keremeos Volunteer Fire Department are not exclusive to that department alone.
There are members of other regional district departments feel the same way as those in Keremeos, and, were similar circumstances to happen at one of those departments, the reaction could very well be the same.
The feeling - especially among longer serving members- of members losing control of their departments is a strong one, especially when it comes to such things as officer appointments and discipline.
Those with a history in their departments are not used to having “outsiders” make those decisions.
The reality is, however, that circumstances beyond local control has dictated that changes in administration be made. Liability issues alone represent too much of a challenge for a community based fire department to make it on its own, let alone issues of cost, human resources, WorkSafe regs and performance standards that need to be addressed.
The regional district and the area’s fire department chiefs realize the need for members to buy in. They understand that there is a need for members to have a say in the politics and administration of their own departments, and it is our understanding that procedures will be implemented that will still allow local voices to be heard.
Hopefully, more dialogue between the disenfranchised firefighters and administration will see a resolution to the present issues in Keremeos.
Everyone involved realizes what is at stake; that in itself is common ground upon which to move forward.