In a recent government meeting, concerns over inadequate fire response times in the Blackstone and South Shore areas were brought to the forefront, prompting discussions on the urgent need for new fire stations. A council member highlighted alarming incidents, including a cardiac arrest case where emergency responders took 13 minutes to arrive, and another incident involving a fire with a 17-minute response time. These delays have raised significant safety concerns among residents, particularly those who have lived in the community for over two decades.

The council member emphasized that the lack of fire stations not only jeopardizes public safety but also impacts local businesses. The potential for devastating losses in the event of a fire could lead to job losses and economic downturns in the area. The discussion underscored the importance of adequate emergency services for both residents and businesses alike.

To address these issues, the council member proposed repealing a previous decision to eliminate the occupational privilege tax, redirecting approximately $6 million annually to fund the staffing of new fire stations in Blackstone, South Shore, and Aurora Highlands. This proposal aims to ensure that emergency services can meet the community's needs effectively.

The meeting also raised questions about why these critical issues were not discussed during a recent budget workshop, with the council member expressing a desire to gather more information before presenting the proposal. As the community faces a projected $12 million revenue deficit in 2026, the discussions signal a pressing need for strategic planning to enhance public safety and support local businesses.