- by John Tamming

In a previous piece for The Hub, I attempted to summarize for the benefit of the ratepayers this past council’s achievements, as I see them. The editor reminded me that I neglected to address an issue close to my heart, namely, the high cost of operating our fire department.

We have made progress in three areas:

First, the number of grievances stands at or close to zero. On its face, this would indicate improved morale and results in decreased legal and related costs for the city

Second, we scored a win at arbitration when we were allowed to reduce the size of a platoon from five to four fire suppression personnel. While this does not affect the number of full time firefighters on staff, this will result in savings of hundreds of thousands of dollars in overtime. It is not a trivial achievement.

Third, we have pressed hard at arbitration for a reduction of full-time fire suppression personnel from 26 to 20. This would set the table for a long standing hope of council, namely a shift to a hybrid model where volunteer firefighters are called up as needed to supplement a smaller roster of full timers. This is what Orangeville has, for example, and it results in very substantial savings. The reductions could also be relatively pain free and accomplished over a number of years through attrition.

Unfortunately, the extended hearing was delayed due to illness and is expected to resume this month. Obviously, there will be no decision for some months. Council pressed as hard as it could and we have retained the very best legal counsel in this field. The community needs to know that we are subject to a poorly drafted collective agreement (completed many years ago) and that we cannot act unilaterally. It is hoped that the new council will be as resolved as we were on this issue. It is a critical first step in getting our operating expenses under control.

Keeping in mind the proverb of two steps forward, one back, the ratepayers should also be reminded that the fire hall has had virtually no capital improvements for fifty years. You simply cannot let a building go like this. As well, it urgently needs quarters suitable for female fire fighters. This is 2022 after all.

I reiterate that we have been impressed throughout with the professionalism and dedication of our fire fighters. Bargaining units and management can agree to disagree and can continue to deliver to a city the very best of fire prevention and suppression. That is exactly what I have witnessed.