The City of Utica looking to consolidate fire department's houses

The City of Utica is looking to consolidate its fire department houses. Currently there are six houses stationed throughout the city.

Last night the Public Safety Committee voted down the proposal to consolidate the houses from six to four.

But, the committee will look into four different proposals made up by Fire Chief Russell Brooks. Councilman Frank Meola says the city will do a cost study to see which one is most efficient and effective.

But, Chief Brooks say public safety should not be overlooked. "There has to be a different way to approaching it. To leave someone without fire protection in a city like this I can't even imagine it," said Brooks.

"The response time I really do believe chief brooks and the council can work out something to make sure that the response time is adequate for the area," said Councilman Meola.

Councilman Meola says one of the proposals is to build a green fire house to help save energy and money. But, he says it's too soon to tell what the city will plan to do.