King’s Wharf developer says proposed change to Station 13 staffing counters recent developments

As the debate continues over the proposed staffing changes to the King Street Fire Station, Station 13, one prominent Dartmouth business man is making known his disapproval of volunteer staffing.

In a formal letter to the mayor, Francis Fares of King’s Wharf says the proposed changes counter the revitalization of downtown Dartmouth that’s been happening in recent years.

“Investments such as those made by King’s Wharf are undertaken assuming there will be a spirit of partnership and support on behalf of the City,” the letter reads.

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The city council is proposing that Station 13 on King St. in Dartmouth go from being staffed by career firefighters 24/7 to being staffed only during peak day-time hours.

Fares calls the residential and commercial growth in the area “unprecedented,” and says that his development is only one of several up and coming multi-use spots.

“This growth we have all worked so hard to achieve only increases the complexity and density of built structures – high rise buildings and population concentration brings new concerns, considerations and needs in terms of emergency response and requirements,” he said.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "This growth we have all worked so hard to achieve only increases the complexity and density of built structures - high rise buildings and population concentration brings new concerns, considerations and needs in terms of emergency response and requirements," he said.

“In addition to several seniors’ residences, the plethora of commercial properties, the new Avery building, the proposed new residential project in the old city hall, and the many existing condo and apartment buildings, King’s Wharf alone presents unique challenges to a down-sized fire station.”

Fares asks that council give more consideration to the changes they’re proposing before making a change that could compromise safety.

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He also states that developments, such as King’s Wharf, should be getting the proper support they need, like fire and emergency services, from the city.

“The restructuring of the Dartmouth Fire Station does not support or recognize this growth and investment and it should be reconsidered. ”

Last week, dozens of Dartmouth residents attended a public meeting where they, too, expressed their concerns with the changes proposed by council.

The matter of the restructuring three Halifax fire stations, including Station 13, is scheduled to be heard at City Council on Tuesday.