Abbotsford News, March 01, 2012

Page 1

POTENT PILOTS

THURSDAY MARCH 1, 2012

The junior B hockey club racked up six goals in its playoff opener vs. Port Moody A15

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No new firefighters in 2012 Council rejects request, setting potential tax increase at 1.66 per cent Kevin MILLS Abbotsford News

A request for five new firefighters in 2012 has been denied by Abbotsford council. The rejection of the proposal by the Abbotsford Fire Rescue Service saves the city $70,000 this year and reduces the proposed municipal tax increase from 1.72 to 1.66 per cent, if no further expenditures are added to the new budget.

The hirings were set for November, with five more firefighters to be added each year until 20 full-time positions were created. “Because it was so late in the year, they wanted to defer the discussion until they had more information on the response rates and industry standards,” said city manager Frank Pizzuto. “And they would revisit it again with the 2013 budget.” The decision raised safety and response

time questions but Pizzuto believes that “between our professional and our volunteer firefighters, we will be able to cover it.” Coun. Patricia Ross called the decision “very disappointing,” and disputed some councillors’ claims that the city’s slower than expected growth rate justifies delaying the hires. Continued on A6

Gas prices soar – fire, global tension blamed

HEAT REACH OUT TO BOY A7 Dad heartwarmed by personal touch of hockey team and president

Neil CORBETT Abbotsford News

TABOO TALK

Groan-inducing gas prices swept across Abbotsford early this week, shooting up to $1.349 per litre at many stations on Tuesday. “I was shocked. I’m spending so much money on gas it’s unreal,” said Travers Whelan of Abbotsford, as he fueled up his SUV. He said it costs him $25 every weekday to travel to a course he attends in New Westmin ster. “Something’s wrong, someone’s gouging – it should be regulated,” he said.Those sentiments were echoed by Roger Larson as he fueled up his vehicle. “I think it’s ridiculous, but what are you going to do? We’ve got to have it. It’s just price gouging – there’s no reason for it. A little guy has no way to fight back.” Continued on A5

G LF

A5 Organizers of the controversial sex show to discuss event here

WASTE-TOENERGY A3 FVRD officials wait for consultation over trash plan, which could be downsizing

Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A11

Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A15

Viewpoint . . . . . . . . . . . . A10

Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . A19

NEIL CORBETT Abbotsford News

Gasoline prices shot above $1.34 per litre on Tuesday, with pundits and critics citing a number of factors.

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