SEA ISLE CITY – Business Administrator George Savastano responded July 23 to homeowner John Deviny’s request to be more open with residents about recent fires and issues related to fire department volunteers.
“I get a sense that you’re not disclosing to us what’s happening,” Deviny said. “We haven’t heard any of the reasons why these fires happen. We gave you a good idea: to have a white paper, a review. Let us know why these things happen, what’s going on, etc.”
In response, Savastano indicated the city does not want to rush into making judgments about the cause of the fires without a factual report from the county fire marshal.
With information provided by the Cape May County Fire Marshal, Savastano read a list of the causes of each of the fires in the last eight months:
* 375 43rd Place – faulty equipment, Freon leak
* 5605 Central Avenue – car engine fire which spread to structure
* 209 75th Street – moldy power strip in second-floor bedroom
* 29 54th Street – undetermined
* 120 61st Street – staple in electric line
* 9107 Pleasure Avenue – undetermined
Recently, the city and fire department has been scrutinized for its response to fires, as well as issues about the required certification for several volunteer firefighters. Previously, the city made it clear the certification issues had nothing to do with the performance and response to the fires.
Deviny added, “Our volunteers do one hell of a job. I don’t want that to be overlooked.” Council unanimously agreed.
To contact Camille Sailer, email csailer@cmcherald.com.
Lower Township – The days of the subscription lifestyle are here. Just bought that new house? To be able to use the bathroom is $12.95 a month. You want to cook in your new kitchen? It’ll cost you $14.95 a month….
