First Opposition To Consultant Suggestion

One suggestion made by KPMG has already got one group up in arms.
The consulting firm suggested that the City of Dryden look at closing the Barclay Fire Hall.
Barclay Firefighters Association Spokesperson Ryan Murrell is asking staff and council to throw cold water on the idea.
Murrell is questioning KPMG estimates of $100,000 in savings.
The Association member says the Hall bleeds power to a large DMTS tower that was attached to the building and there’s only one hydro metre on site.
Murrell notes a storage facility for museum artificats may also be impacting hydro rates.
He adds the City may lose money in the long run as a third party auditor would be needed if the Hall were to close.
Murrell says that could cost $60,000-$100,000 and notes the auditor could recommend upgrades to the Dryden Fire Hall, new equipment and additional staff.
He adds the consulting firm never looked at the human factor as mothballing the building would drive up response times for firefighters.
Murrell stresses making the move would put lives at risk.
There is also concern from Council and residents that closing the Barclay Hall could drive up insurance costs for area homeowners.
Murrell is asking individuals councillors to come to the Barclay Hall and join the 16-member firefighters on a call to see the importance of the service.
He’s also provided a letter addressing their concerns to each member of council.
Murrell adds the per household cost for the Dryden Fire Service is $181.
That compares to $322 in Kenora, $342 in Fort Frances and $442 in Thunder Bay according to Murrell, who is also acting as a concerned citizen.