Shediac councillor wants improved fire services for amalgamated Pointe-du-Chêne
A Shediac councillor wants to see the town's main water line extended to include the newly amalgamated community of Pointe-du-Chêne.
Coun. Harry McInroy introduced a motion recently, asking for a $5,000 study into the cost of extending water service and fire hydrants beyond the old town of Shediac.
In 2023, under local governance reform, the municipality of Shediac was expanded to include the popular tourist area of Pointe-du-Chêne.
Not only would the extended water line help the fire department serve the area that currently relies on well water, but it would also reduce insurance costs for some residents.
WATCH | Fire Capt. Julien Boudreau says extending fire hydrants would save time in emergencies:
"We're part of the town of Shediac and it's only logical that the water line comes down Pointe-du-Chêne Road, not stop at the old town boundary," he said.
The closest fire hydrant to Pointe-du-Chêne is currently about a kilometre away, according to Shediac fire officials.
"I think it's a major, major need," McInroy said. "The more that the town can do to give the highest service possible in terms of fire protection — then that's what should be done."
Coun. Harry McInroy said Pointe-du-Chêne would benefit from better firefighting resources by extending the main Shediac water line through the community to the wharf. (Rhythm Rathi/CBC)
More hydrants would save time
Shediac Fire Department Capt. Julien Boudreau describes Pointe-du-Chêne as "very densely populated" with cottages, a marina and businesses on the wharf.
He says while the fire department has been serving the area for a century using tanker trucks and water from Shediac Bay if necessary, having access to fire hydrants would be an improvement that could save valuable time.
"We're going to want to act quickly on any fire in Pointe-du-Chêne, because of the fact that the houses are very close together. We want to make sure that the fire doesn't spread."
Shediac Fire Department Capt. Julien Boudreau said more hydrants would help to reduce time in firefighting operations. (Rhythm Rathi/CBC)
Boudreau said the fleet currently has three fire trucks which each hold 1,250 gallons or about 4,700 litres of water. When there is a major fire, Shediac also receives help from neighbouring departments.
McInroy is hopeful that extending the water lines will be one of many improvements his ward of Pointe-du-Chêne will see with amalgamation.
Town staff have recommended the study go ahead, but council has yet to approve the $5,000 expenditure from a special projects fund.
