The Elko Fire Hall hopes to see expansion work begin in 2026.

The existing hall does not currently meet the operational needs of the department. The fire hall is without running water, a washroom, or shower facilities for firefighters to use, and there is not enough truck bay space to store all apparatus. As such, the Elko Wildland truck is currently stored at the Baynes Lake Fire Hall.

The upcoming expansion would add approximately 1,300 sqft to the existing hall, increasing storage and apparatus housing capacity, and ensuring the hall has the facilities required for firefighter use.

The Elko Firehall Expansion was noted in the 2023 budget memo, with construction anticipated to begin once planning and procurement phases were completed. It was further noted that a $200,000 Community Works Fund request would be brought forward to the Directors. Based on escalating construction costs, the estimated cost of the project has been increased up to approximately $300,000. With the current project budget, funding will come from the Community Works Fund, so there will be no increase in taxation as a result of the expansion.

Fire halls are classed as post-disaster facilities and require geotechnical assessments and structural engineered designs. Once the geotechnical assessment and engineered designs were complete, a Request for Proposal (RFP) was posted to BC Bid to determine the expected construction costs. Proposals have been received and are currently being reviewed. If the contract award is approved by Board, the expansion is expected to break ground in the spring of 2026.