Kamloops Search and Rescue will share its home with local firefighters after Thompson-Nicola Regional District voters gave the OK to borrow $6.3 million for the project.

That’s more than half the cost of a hall that will also service as a fire hall in the Rayleigh neighbourhood, replacing Kamloops Fire Rescue’s station near the Tolko mill.

The regional district is expected to fund 75 per cent of the project, which includes a $1.4 million contribution from Kamloops Search and Rescue. The city will contribute nearly $2.4 million, with the overall project estimated to cost up to around $10 million.

“Kamloops Search and Rescue is truly grateful for the support of the community and the entire (regional district). This milestone not only reflects the community’s commitment but also strengthens our ability to respond,” Kamloops Search and Rescue president Paula Davies said in a news release issued today, July 2.

The search and rescue group has been using an ageing city-owned property in Mission Flats and has been seeking a new home for years. The Cooper Foundation previously donated a space at a building near Ord Road, but the deal fell through in 2022.

“The new facility will enable us to improve our training and preparedness, ultimately allowing us to respond more effectively. Together we are building a safer future for emergency response,” Davies said.

Regional district voters approved the 20-year, $6.3 million loan through an alternative approval process, or counter-petition, needing 10% of eligible voters to deny the funding. Only 86 people sent a petition out of a required 14,029 voters.

According to the regional district release, a home valued at $680,000 is expected to pay $7.37 per year to pay off the debt, along with the $100,000 annual operating costs.

Construction may start in 2027 at the site on 4420 Devick Road.