Utica Fire Chief Hopeful Fire Houses Will Remain Open

Utica, NY (WIBX) - The Utica Common Council's Public Safety Committee recently met with Fire Chief Russell Brooks to hear how he plans to deal with the recent reductions to the Fire Department compliment.

In total, 23 members retired and another 12 were also trimmed, leaving the Chief with 105 personnel to cover the city.

Chief Brooks feels confident his plan will mitigate the need to close fire houses without costing the taxpayers any extra money. "They've agreed temporarily to keep all the fire houses open", said Chief Brooks, adding "I've seen 9 fire fatalities in West Utica over the last few years". Chief Brooks will be back in front of the Public Safety Committee in the immediate future to continue the discussion, but as of right now, Brooks feels as though all 6 of Utica's fire Stations can remain open.