While action is being taken to address deficiencies in the current Codiac Regional RCMP facility, a request for tender has been issued for the new building.
Don Moore, Chair of the Codiac Regional Policing Authority, said at a meeting on Thursday night that he received a letter from Moncton City Manager Marc Landry in January.
“As you know, our teams have already begun addressing a number of deficiencies identified in the recent Fire and Life Safety Audit report (example: removed propane tanks from exhibits room, relocated flammable and combustible liquids, hired consultant to develop fire safety plan and procedures for storing dangerous good),” states the letter.
“Furthermore, efforts are currently underway to scope, plan and execute several other repairs, all this in collaboration with the Codiac RCMP representatives.”
Moore said, during recent dialogue, Landry noted repairs continue to be actively pursued and that the chair will begin to receive a monthly report on the state of the current facility.
When asked for further details, Moore said he could only provide the letter, as other information, including the specific repairs needed, could breach security clearances.
A presentation made to Moncton City Council in October painted the 43-year-old facility as a decrepit building that poses a threat to the safety of those inside.
Tender for new station
Concerns over the previous facility prompted seven members of Moncton City Council to vote in favour of a new $57.2 million home for the RCMP, which will be located on Albert Street.
Moncton is on the hook for the cost of the building, while the Town of Riverview and the City of Dieppe will contribute through rent.
Speaking during the meeting on Thursday, the Deputy Mayor of Moncton, Charles Leger, revealed the request for tender was issued for the new building in December 2021.
Based on this timeline, Leger projected it will be returned by the end of February and will likely come before council in March.
Leger noted that they are still looking at a variety of cost issues or ways to reduce costs.
Later when asked to clarify, Leger said prior to the tender being released, there were several items identified that could possibly be reduced or alternatives, and they were included in the request.
“There is sort of that wait and see if indeed there can be a number of costs reductions, and that will come back in the tender,” Leger said.
