Willowbrook Fire Hall to be energy efficient

Willowbrook Fire Hall is receiving $13,000 to complete energy efficiency measures which were outlined in the Energy Efficiency Strategic Plan and Framework Final Report commissioned by the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS).

The $13,000 expenditure will be coming from the Electoral Area “C” Community Works (Gas Tax) Reserve Fund.  As part of the New Building Canada Plan, the renewable federal Gas Tax Fund provides predictable, long-term, stable funding for Canadian local governments to them building grand revitalize local, public infrastructure.

Electoral Area “C” Director, Terry Schafer stated "I can't take credit for funds committed by my predecessor, but it's my pleasure to make this gas tax grant of $13,000 available for the Willowbrook Fire Department.  I can't think of a more deserving organization who have gone so far above and beyond in finding ways to make do through ingenuity, volunteerism, leveraging and, (quite admirably) scrounging."

The Willowbrook Fire Hall will be replacing a bay door and installing weather stripping.  More energy efficient lighting will be installed.  Insulation and seals to attic hatches will be installed, and the vehicle bay will get improved insulation.  Windows will be upgraded and existing heaters will be replaced, as well as many other energy efficiency upgrades.  

"The Willowbrook Volunteer Fire Department wishes to thank the community and the RDOS Board of Directors for this funding.  The money will go to improving overall community safety and the 'ready time' of the department.  The deployment skirt around the hall will finally be covered in black top, allowing for quicker emergency departures, cleaner maintenance of FD apparatus, and a safer environment for all members of the WVFD. The funding is greatly appreciated", said Lionel Trudel of the Willowbrook Fire Department.

Taking steps to be more energy efficient is about using less energy to do the things we need.  Energy efficiency is a key tool in the fight against climate change and it can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels, and lowers energy bills.  The Regional District strives to be an effective, fiscally responsible organization and to develop an environmentally sustainable community.