The Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) is splitting almost $1 million among 13 projects aimed at supporting and improving emergency facilities.
CBT officials said the projects are aimed at boosting local emergency response teams’ ability to protect residents from disasters like floods, wildfires or sustained power outages.
“People and communities in the Basin have long been concerned about climate change and its consequences, and these projects exemplify how organizations are being proactive when it comes to ensuring safety when emergency situations arise,” said Will Nixon, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “We’re pleased to support those who are rising to the challenges of climate change and taking steps to ensure the health and resilience of people and places.”
The money can be used to strengthen emergency operations centres and create emergency gathering spaces, with necessities like power, filtered air, air conditioning, emergency equipment and supplies.
Examples of a few of the projects can be found below.
Golden – $19,400
CBT officials said the Town of Golden will use its grant money to purchase satellite internet, a battery backup and VHF radio equipment.
The portable equipment will be kept in Golden’s Emergency Operations Centre in case of internet outages.
“During emergencies, reliable, redundant, robust communications for the Emergency Operations Centre is a necessity,” said Kyle Hale, Golden and Area Emergency Program Coordinator. “Community-wide power outages are an annual occurrence, such as the multi-day outage in December 2021 that resulted in the failure of portions of the community’s cellular network. Having this equipment in place will help ensure effective response and recovery during major emergencies or disasters.”
Kaslo – $128,000
CBT staff said the Village of Kaslo will install a backup generator, heat pumps and an air filtration system in the arena.
The building serves as the community’s emergency reception centre.
The Village of Kaslo will also conduct an accessibility assessment and prepare to redevelop the arena’s kitchen.
“There is a history of devastating wildfires, floods and landslides in the area dating back to the earliest days of settlement,” said Suzan Hewat, Kaslo Mayor. “The Kaslo Arena will not only serve as a safe haven for area residents during such emergencies but will also allow our community to respond more effectively to disaster situations. By providing a secure space, reliable resources and essential amenities, we can alleviate stress and uncertainty during crises, fostering a sense of unity and resilience among our residents.”
Kitchener – $65,000
The Trust said the Kitchener Valley Recreation and Fire Protection Society will install a backup generator in Kitchener Hall and upgrade the kitchen to commercial standards.
“This is so important for our community, to have a safe place to come to in an emergency, natural disaster or extreme weather event, and also for the public and workers that travel through this area and may be stranded,” said Debbie Keirn, Chair. “Our community hall will be able to provide a safe and accessible space with shelter, simple meals and respite.”
Yahk – $65,000
CBT officials said the Yahk Kingsgate Recreation Society will install an air filtration system and a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system in the Yahk Community Centre.
Work will also include upgrading the building’s wi-fi equipment and buying emergency equipment.
The building serves as an emergency reception centre.
“This project will further prepare us for emergencies, providing a safe reception centre that is prepared with valuable equipment and supplies during high-risk events, ensuring the protection of our people and properties and the restoration of community operations in a timely fashion after an event,” said Cynthia Rose, President. “This will directly benefit full-time community members, summer residents and those travelling throughout the year on our local highway.”
A full list of the projects set to receive funding can be found below.
More: Community Readiness Funding – 2024 (Columbia Basin Trust)