After the completion of the Fire Hall Location Review, in late October 2009, Council endorsed the concept of a two-firehall model, with a new main firehall to be constructed in one of the preferred locations in the Keating area, and with a satellite station at the Municipal Hall site.

Through late 2009 to late spring 2010, a schematic design and “class D” construction cost estimate for a new building were developed.

Two adjacent lots located at 1498 and 1516 Keating Cross Road (now known as 1512 Keating Cross Road) became available for purchase and were within one of the preferred areas identified in the Fire Station Location Review. In August 2010, the District purchased this 1.6 ha site  using funds from its General Uncommitted Reserve Accounts.

After a Public Information Meeting in September 2010, and using public input to further refine design elements, Council considered the Firehall Project - Proposed & Recommended Next Steps Report on the project in early October, and gave approval to proceed with Phase 2 detailed design development. An Open House, with a presentation by the architects and to solicit public input, was held in November 2010.

The detailed design stage and a “Class B” cost estimate were completed and presented to Council in February, 2011, and Council authorized the architect to proceed with construction drawings and directed Staff to bring forward a Loan Authorization Bylaw.

On June 20, 2011, Council adopted the Central Saanich Firehall Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 1729, 2011, which, if adopted, would authorize the borrowing of the money required to build the new main firehall, including the repayment of the reserve accounts for the land costs.

Currently there needs to be a rezoning application process with respect to the property. Only if the site is rezoned, can the District proceed with the project as proposed.