The Galveston Landmark Commission convened on April 21, 2025, to address the recent fires that damaged three historic structures on Fourth Street. The meeting featured Fire Marshal Chris Harrison, who provided insights into the ongoing investigation and fire safety measures.

The fires, which raised significant concerns within the community, remain under investigation, with no definitive cause identified yet. Harrison explained that the investigation is complex, and while they cannot pinpoint a specific cause, they are working diligently to gather more information.

In response to the fires, the Galveston Historical Foundation is partnering with the commission to host two public informational sessions focused on fire safety in historic buildings. These sessions will emphasize the importance of fire sprinklers and will take place on April 23 at 5:30 PM and again on April 30 from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at the Wortham Auditorium in the Rosenberg Library. Community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about protecting historic properties.

During the meeting, questions arose regarding the protocol for damaged historic buildings. Harrison clarified that if a structure is deemed unsafe, the demolition process would not require prior approval from the commission, as public health and safety take precedence. Property owners will have the opportunity to decide whether to rehabilitate or demolish their buildings, but they must act promptly.

The discussion also touched on firefighting strategies specific to historic structures, with Harrison noting that while each building presents unique challenges, firefighters are trained to adapt their approach based on construction types. Concerns about water pressure from fire hydrants were addressed, with assurances that adequate measures were in place during the response to the fires.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of these incidents, the commission's focus on fire safety education and the ongoing investigation underscores a commitment to preserving Galveston's historic character while ensuring public safety. The upcoming informational sessions aim to empower residents with knowledge and resources to better protect their properties in the future.