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City of Grand Forks open for business after fire - PRESS RELEASE

Residents and businesses can still access information they need from City Hall, despite yesterday’s fire that damaged the historic building.
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Fire struck Grand Forks City Hall this morning doing extensive damage inside and a moderate to the door frame.

Residents and businesses can still access information they need from City Hall, despite yesterday’s fire that damaged the historic building.A temporary “City Hall” has been set up at the Public Works Office, located at 130 Industrial Drive, with access to the remote online databases. A more permanent location is being sought and will be used until building renovations are complete. Other systems for residential and business services such as utility bill payments are being set up over the coming weeks as well.City staff are available to handle inquiries in person at the new, temporary “City Hall.” The phone lines have been re-routed and you can also reach City staff at the same phone number: 250-442-8266.City Council will hold its regular Council meetings at the Grand Forks offices of the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary located at 2140 Central Avenue.In addition, a special Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 23rd at 7:00 PM at the Grand Forks Senior’s Centre to discuss moving forward. The public is welcome to attend.The move comes in the wake of the September 19th fire at City Hall.“This has been a shock to our staff and our community,” says Mayor Brian Taylor. “We are meeting with our staff to ensure they are looked after as we move forward. We will also continue to provide information to the community through the media, on our website, and by phone or in person at our temporary location at Public Works.”A structural engineer has completed an assessment of City Hall. Initial reports indicate the damage was superficial and limited to the first floor. There does not appear to be any structural damage resulting from the fire.As a result of this report, investigators are now able to enter the building to begin their assessments.Part of this process will include determining the extent of any potential damage to the City’s archives, located in the basement level of the building. Website: www.grandforks.ca Email: info@grandforks.ca