BOYLE – The Village of Boyle is moving ahead with its decision to invoice the Greater North Foundation for search and rescue efforts after a missing persons case involving one of the housing foundation's residents in early May.
Councillors voted 3-1 in favour of a motion to have a $2,730 bill for search and rescue staff stand despite a request from GNF to waive it, with Coun. Pat Ferguson opposed.
“Due to the recent community evacuation, our concern for this resident’s safety was heightened, particularly due to potential cognitive challenges that may have been impacted by the evacuation process,” wrote the GNF’s CAO Wanda Parker in her request to council.
“In the absence of immediate family support, the Foundation made the decision to report the resident missing out of an abundance of caution and a duty of care. We understand that such actions carry financial implications, and we remain deeply appreciative of the swift and professional response from all involved.”
The resident was safely located the same day he was reported missing from the Wild Rose Villa, but the search efforts, which included the Boyle RCMP, Boyle Fire Department, and dedicated search and rescue teams came with a cost.
“I know it’s a hard ask, I suggested that they write the letter anyway, but it’s up to council,” said Ferguson, who also serves as GNF’s board chair.
“On the regular side of the lodge, residents are free to go as they please but unfortunately when a character disappears like that, we’re all thinking the worst.”
Councillors took the decision seriously, noting the tough financial position the foundation and the village are in, and while they weren’t happy with their decision, most felt it was one they had to make.
“If I look at my personal opinion and my heart, I definitely know which way I would go, but with this being council, I tend to agree. It’s a legitimate bill. Everybody came back out to look, and it’s a cost,” said Coun. Barb Smith.
“I hate it, it breaks my heart.”
Councillors had the option to waive part of the bill, all of the bill, or leave it to stand.
