During a recent city council meeting, a resident raised urgent concerns regarding the maintenance of fire hydrants following a devastating fire that destroyed a local home. The resident, identified as a friend of the homeowner Bob Salic, reported that firefighters struggled to access water from multiple hydrants during the incident, with several being dry and only one operational hydrant available.

The resident highlighted a troubling history of neglect regarding fire hydrant maintenance, referencing discussions from 15 years ago when budget constraints were cited as a reason for inadequate upkeep. They noted that the council had previously ceased flushing hydrants due to fears of damaging them, which has led to a critical situation where essential firefighting resources are unavailable when needed most.

The resident expressed frustration that this issue has persisted for over a decade without resolution, questioning why taxpayers are burdened with costs while lacking adequate fire protection. They urged the council to take immediate action to ensure that fire hydrants are properly maintained, emphasizing the potential consequences of inaction, including the loss of homes and lives.

This incident has sparked a call for accountability and action from city officials, as residents demand answers and solutions to ensure the safety and security of their community.