After more than seventy years of operating from makeshift locations like private garages, barns, and temporary firehalls, Central Okanagan Search and Rescue (COSAR) is poised to finally establish its long-awaited permanent home. This monumental development marks a new era for the entirely volunteer-run organization, promising enhanced operational capabilities and a centralized base for its critical life-saving missions across the region.
The significant announcement took place at the KF Centre for Excellence, confirming that the state-of-the-art facility will be constructed with substantial financial backing. A cornerstone of this project is a generous $6 million donation from the Lapointe Foundation, complemented by crucial additional support flowing from various community stakeholders and governmental bodies, underscoring a collective commitment to public safety.
Further bolstering the funding for this vital initiative, the Province of British Columbia and the Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) have collectively contributed an impressive $4 million. This multi-faceted financial investment reflects a shared vision among private donors and public entities to equip one of British Columbia’s busiest search and rescue teams with the infrastructure it urgently needs.
The strategic location chosen for the new COSAR building is within the future Glenmore Protective Services Campus, situated along John Hindle Drive. This comprehensive campus is also slated to host a new $39 million fire hall for the City of Kelowna, creating a synergistic hub for Okanagan Emergency Services that will foster greater inter-agency coordination and response efficiency.
For nearly five years, COSAR has been diligently advocating for the replacement of its outdated facility on Old Vernon Road, near the Kelowna International Airport. This persistent advocacy has culminated in a solution that will, for the first time in the organization’s history, enable the entire team to operate seamlessly from one secure, dedicated location, eliminating logistical challenges and improving readiness.
This consolidation is a game-changer for a team that consistently ranks among the busiest Search and Rescue BC units. COSAR is a prime example of a dedicated Volunteer Organization, projected to respond to over 100 calls in the upcoming year alone. Their unwavering commitment to assisting individuals in distress, often in challenging conditions, highlights their indispensable role within the community.
Ed Henczel, a seasoned search manager with COSAR, emphasized the profound impact of this new development. “Right now, our training is done at Station One on Enterprise, and we are really crowded for space,” Henczel stated, adding, “So having the new state-of-the-art training centre is really a game changer for us.” This improved infrastructure will allow for advanced training methodologies, directly translating into more effective and efficient rescue operations benefiting the entire Okanagan region. This project stands as a testament to the power of Community Support in building stronger, safer communities.
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