Council prioritizes fire safety after tragic rental incident

During a recent council meeting, significant discussions centered around the newly drafted short-term rental ordinance, with particular emphasis on fire safety standards. Lisa Kearns, a resident from West Bridal Street, expressed her gratitude to the council for addressing gaps in the existing code, particularly in relation to fire safety, which she highlighted as a critical concern.

Kearns commended the council for their proactive approach in tackling issues such as parking, noise, and density, but stressed that fire safety is paramount, citing the tragic death of her friend, Alexandra Steele, in a fire incident last year. She urged the council to continue prioritizing fire safety in their discussions and decision-making processes, emphasizing the potential dangers posed by inadequate safety measures.

The council members acknowledged Kearns' comments and expressed their commitment to further evaluate existing ordinances and collaborate with the fire chief to enhance safety standards. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote, passing the ordinance with additional language that reflects the council's dedication to improving fire safety measures in the community.