WHEREAS, On December 17, 2013, the Fire Department was forced to close the firehouse at 7720 Ridge Avenue due to toxic fumes from over 20 chemicals, causing one firefighter to be rushed to the hospital. The firehouse's unit, Engine 66, was moved and this station remains closed; and
WHEREAS, On September 27, 2013, Medic Unit 44B caught fire inside the firehouse at 4th and Arch Streets, severely damaging the building. News reports in December stated that the repairs to the firehouse would not be completed until sometime in the Winter 2014, allowing the station to stay closed for over one year; and
WHEREAS, The firehouse at 1127-29 W. Louden Street that is home to Engine 72 is currently in a state of tremendous disrepair. Recent tests have found mold spores in the air, major plumbing issues that have caused interior flooding, and electrical violations; and
WHEREAS, Other firehouses throughout the City are in need of much repair. Rodent infestation, missing ceiling tiles, basement mold from apparatus leakage and other issues are found in far too many buildings; and
WHEREAS, In 2010, the Philadelphia City Controller issued a report on the condition and status of Police Facilities. This report found amongst other issues: electrical problems, fire safety hazards, structural issues, inadequate storage, rodent/roach infestation and potential asbestos exposure. Recent reports have confirmed that these conditions persist still today and little has been done to rectify these unsafe and unsanitary conditions; and
WHEREAS, City Council recognizes that our Police and Fire personnel deserve safe, secure, and sanitary work environment, and it is a moral obligation of this City government to provide this environment; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That the Committee on Public Property and Public Works is authorized to hold public hearings to investigate the current condition and status of all firehouses and police district buildings after multiple reports of unsafe and unhealthy conditions.
FURTHER RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That in furtherance of such an investigation, this Council is hereby authorized to issue subpoenas as may be necessary or appropriate to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents to the full extent authorized under Section 2-401 of The Philadelphia Home Rule Charter.
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