Contrary to what you might be seeing on social media, a proposed new fire headquarters for Timmins has not been cancelled. Fire Chief Scott Atkinson says it’s suspended for now, while an independent location study is done.
There’s been controversy over the proposed site on Hwy. 655 just off Algonquin Blvd. concerning that location and resulting response times across the city.
“We are going to pause things for now and try and do this right,” the chief tells mytimminsnow.com, “taking into account some input from all parties involved with the building.”
The current HQ on Cedar Street South was built in 1957. Chief Atkinson says it was fantastic for that era. But trucks are now heavier – meaning wear and tear on the building – and the doors aren’t adequate for the height of newer equipment.
“We just need to expand and make this fire department a more modern department, which makes it safer for all firefighters and the public itself.”
Posted below is audio of Chief Atkinson discussing all of this and explaining why a decontamination room is needed in the new building.
He says the incoming city council will make the final decision, adding that if all goes well, the new HQ will be operational in 2029 or 2030.
