Ways we engaged residents

From July 26 to September 26, 2024, we engaged residents of Bessborough, Farmington and Sunrise Valley about expanded fire protection services in their communities.

An online and paper survey was available for residents and businesses, ensuring anonymity to shape the final report and understand community needs.

Residents were invited to in-person town hall meetings in September to discuss goals and proposed service areas, with about 20 attendees per session. Hard copy surveys were also completed at these events.

We also launched this project page on the Have Your Say platform for residents to track progress and ask questions.

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Consultation has concluded.

The PRRD and FireWise engaged residents in the targeted communities through in-person town hall sessions, and a community survey from July to September 2024 which captured 94 responses.

On June 19, 2025, the project team presented the findings, public feedback and recommendations to the Regional Board. The Regional Board decided not to expand fire services in the area, for now, considering the high costs of starting and maintaining a fire service. These costs include building a facility, buying equipment, hiring, training and equipping personnel.

If expanded fire protection services is something the community becomes interested in again, the Peace River Regional District Regional Board may choose to revisit the idea.