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Martin van den Hemel photo Fire protection bylaw changes will allow the city to board up any building left abandoned.
City cracking down on vacant homes Abandoned buildings pose a risk to neighbourhoods, says fire chief by Matthew Hoekstra Staff Reporter Richmond is putting the squeeze on owners of abandoned houses with new rules aimed at reducing the risk of fires. Endorsed Tuesday by a council committee, fire protection bylaw changes would allow the city to board up any building left abandoned—with 24 hours’ notice—and send the owner the bill. Such owners would also be on the hook for costs if a vacant house—boarded up or not—catches fire or otherwise requires a response or even de-
molition. “Within the region there certainly is a lot of redevelopment and reinvigoration of communities and even densification, so this isn’t unique to Richmond,” said Richmond Fire-Rescue Chief John McGowan, who isn’t aware of any other city in the region taking similar action. “This is just another step in managing a risk to the community and creating a safer community.” Last year Richmond Fire-Rescue responded to 17 fire calls at abandoned properties, and Richmond RCMP were called out 55 times. Richmond has been cracking down on abandoned homes since mid2013. That’s when bylaw officers began proactive patrols to identify abandoned properties. See Page 4
Jenna Hauck photo Anthony Demch of R.A. McMath controls the ball during a game against Charles Best at the B.C. high school boys triple-A basketball provincial championships at Langley Events Centre on Wednesday. McMath opened the four-day tournament with a 73-70 win.
Dan Ferguson photo Sam Cabuay of Richmond Christian eyes the ball in the Eagles’ opening day 79-19 rout of Mulgrave in senior boys’ single-A action.
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John Morrow photo The McNair Marlins dropped their opener to Robert Bateman 63-52, but downed Mark Isfeld 77-58 on Thursday.
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