I asked Jim Ruhland, owner of the Fire Hall Bistro building to comment on “street news” circulating about the popular downtown restaurant.

“Respectfully, Bill and Dawn have given formal notice that they will not be the future operators of our licences for personal and macro-economic reasons. Many have come to enjoy their service and will be sad to see them go early next fall. They have contributed greatly to the overall branding of the “Old Firehall” business model and will be missed.

Bill & Dawn Reid do not own the restaurant and licenses, so it is not theirs to close or move. Too many good things happening at the “Old Firehall” to not move forward and embrace the recent 25% increase in foot traffic through the building over the last two years combined with future economic growth the correction facility construction with bring to the area.

I have, and will continue to invest in this community because I believe in it. The Firehall Brewery will be doing a news release in the near future that demonstrates confidence in the future growth potential of the downtown core along with distribution opportunities from up and coming changes to BCs liquor laws. Down the road you will be getting a refreshing update with future restaurant plans that will have the “pint glass half full” rather than “half empty”.”

Sincerely, Jim Ruhland, President
Wine Country Welcome Centre Inc (A.K.A. “Old Firehall”)