WEYBURN – Weyburn city council passed first reading of updates to the city’s fire services bylaw at the meeting on Tuesday night.
The first reading was passed by a vote of 6-1, with Mayor Marcel Roy the dissenting vote, as he considered the proposed fines in the bylaw to be heavy-handed.
Fire Chief Trent Lee introduced the bylaw changes, noting the bylaw was first introduced in May of 2021, and was extensively reviewed and updated, with comparisons made with municipalities of a similar size to Weyburn.
Mayor Roy said he didn’t care what other communities are doing, as the bylaw should reflect what the needs are in Weyburn.
“The fees are quite strong, and I think all the fees could be cut in half,” said the mayor, adding the fine levels should also be cut in half from what is proposed.
He also felt that what is needed more is education of the public about what is needed rather than issuing fines.
“One of the problems we’re dealing with are second and third offences and not following the national fire code,” said chief Lee.
“I think you’ve done a great job here,” said Coun. Jeff Richards. “I’m very happy with what I’m seeing in front of me.”
Coun. Laura Morrissette thanked the fire chief for all of the time he spent in discussions over the bylaw with council members, and noted the fire fighters time is valuable when they have to go back to see if there is compliance with a given fire order.
Coun. John Corrigan pointed out there is a provision for a partial rebate if a fine is paid within 14 days. “I think that comes within the realm of being fair,” he added.
Chief Lee noted the changes were made to clarify the bylaw, and reduce repeat fire inspections of properties that don’t meet the national fire code.
The bylaw will be brought back for the second and third readings at a future meeting.
