It’s not the amount – it’s the principle that matters.
On Nov. 20, Puslinch councillors were asked by Puslinch Fire and Rescue Services to waive the fees at the Optimist Recreation Centre for a planned family Christmas party.
The event is for the afternoon of Dec. 15. The rental fee would have amounted to $541.
Councillor Wayne Stokley pointed out this a new event for the volunteer fire department. In the past similar events were held at the fire hall, he explained.
He considered this as more of a family venue.
“I would like to be able to support this because the firefighters’ family are also involved in supporting the fire department on a daily basis.”
Stokley considered waiving the fees as a means of thanking both the fire department and the families for their time and commitment to the community.
Councillor Ken Roth said he appreciates what the firefighters do for the community and what the families do.
However, Roth contended the time sought is prime time for rentals.
“If even half of the fire department showed up, the cost per hour is $9 to entertain the families. I think the amount is so little it is almost a ridiculous request and I can’t support it.”
Councillor Jerry Schmidt said his opinion had not changed significantly since earlier in the meeting when he expressed concern about waiving fees for what are essentially private functions.
“This event is really a private – not a public event.”
Schmidt stressed that he appreciated the work of the firefighters – “I support them all the way.”
Councillor Susan Fielding asked for a recorded vote.
Mayor Dennis Lever shared concerns on both sides of the issue.
He agreed both members of the fire and roads departments are out at all hours of the night.
“I would feel much more comfortable supporting this if there was a recommendation from the CAO stating that this was a family Christmas party for all employees – rather than for one group or department,” said Lever.
In a 3-2 recorded vote, council turned down the request to waive the fees.
Fielding and Stokley voted in favour of waiving the fees, while Schmidt, Roth and Lever were opposed.
