The Public Safety & Transportation Committee voted to approve the following (see Report and watch NewTV video):
- Submission of semi-annual public auto inspections (6-0, Councilor Grossman not voting)
- Request authorization for $300,000 from Free Cash to replace the Fire Emergency Response Unit (6-0, Councilor Grossman not voting) According to the report, “The current ERU is a 1989 Coca-Cola delivery truck, which has gone beyond a point where mechanics feel uncomfortable it be kept on the road.” The intend to purchase a new 20-foot box truck capable of carrying 17,000 pounds of equipment and supplies. The truck will be fitted with lights, sirens, radios, and a storage system.
Public Safety & Transportation Committee voted No Action Necessary (NAN) on the following item:
- Request for discussion on EV battery fires with the Fire Chief (6-0, Councilor Grossman not voting). Chief Gentile explained that lithium-ion batteries are as safe as any household product. In New York, they are seeing problems with aftermarket chargers and batteries, approximately 25% of the cost of a UL-listed new battery. Using large amounts of water is the best suppressing agent used as close to the battery as possible. Foam does not suppress lithium-ion battery fires (ie fire extinguishers). Lithium-ion batteries produce toxic smoke and chemicals. Firefighters use self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) for protection. Suggestion to opt into sprinkler requirement for one and two-unit buildings.
Public Safety & Transportation Committee denied:
- Appeal of Traffic Council Decision TC5-23 for a stop sign on the traffic island at the northwest corner of the Clark Street and Rowena Road intersection. Zero crashes at the site, no sidewalk, and pedestrians in the street. Traffic Council felt a stop sign was a modest improvement in safety. Opposing councilors thought a stop sign was insufficient and added to intersections confusion. (4-3, Councilors Lucas, Oliver, and Malakie opposed)