Hidden fire risks, taxi safety measures shape North Battleford bylaw discussions

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Under the proposed amendments, buildings could remain boarded up for up to three months before owners would be required to replace boarded windows with glass or plexiglass and boarded doorways with proper exterior doors. Buildings remaining boarded up for more than six months could become subject to an order to remedy, including possible demolition.

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Hidden fire risks, taxi safety measures shape North Battleford bylaw discussions

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Under the city’s existing fire prevention bylaw, if the Fire Chief carries out work because an owner fails to comply with an order, the costs are invoiced to the owner and may ultimately be added to the property’s taxes if left unpaid.

Holm said the recommendation for plexiglass would allow firefighters to see inside vacant structures while maintaining security if work extends beyond the initial three-month period.

The committee also discussed updating the city’s bylaw to adopt the 2020 National Fire Code of Canada.

Asked what practical effect the change would have, Holm said it would primarily ensure inspections and future construction reflect current standards.

“It’s mainly for new buildings moving forward when they get built. It allows us to inspect to code today,” he said, adding the update would not affect staffing levels or create budget implications.

Mayor Kelli Hawtin questioned whether the city needed to specifically adopt the updated code if Saskatchewan had already done so, with City Clerk Stacey Hadley responding that updating the bylaw would better align the city’s language with provincial legislation and support local enforcement.

Committee members also examined the proposed vehicle-for-hire bylaw, with discussion centred on implementation details and changes made following consultation with local cab companies.

Hadley said the draft includes forward- and rear-facing cameras with audio recording capability and panic buttons connected to dispatch or an emergency contact plan.

“Should we ever need to reflect back on any sort of complaints or information, or for vehicle video request purposes through the RCMP, or anything like that,” she said. “It just adds a different layer of safety there.”

She said operators would not be expected to have the equipment installed until licence renewals in January 2027, giving businesses time to prepare for the added cost.

The discussion also covered accessibility requirements, safety shields, fare meters and complaint investigations. 

Administration said research and feedback from operators did not support making safety shields mandatory. Hawtin also sought clarification on passenger protections requiring drivers to take the most economical route, with administration confirming the provision remains in the proposed bylaw.

The planning committee voted to recommend both proposed bylaws move forward for council’s consideration.

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Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com