V Hugh Lewis II/Jefferson Jimplecute
The Jefferson City Council approved the use of “water barricades” at Monday’s special City Council meeting.
“I’m comfortable [with the water barricades],” said Jefferson Police Chief Florentino Perez.
“I reviewed the complaint and issue that barricades that hold water pose a safety issue or concern for first responders or people needing to get in,” said Perez. “I agree that barricades holding water do pose a safety issue, and to eliviate off that, an emergency action plan needs to be in place to move them for first responders arriving at an incident.”
Perez specified that an able-bodied person should be able to move the barricades in the event of an emergency. He also indicated that space should be allowed to allow an emergency side-by-side to pass through.
“With that in place, I’m very comfortable with the water barricades,” said Perez.
Perez indicated that Jefferson Volunteer Fire Chief Rod Rodriguez, and Marion County Sheriff David Capps were not concerned about the barricades as long as there is an action plan in place.
Seven other individuals also spoke during the meeting showing support for the use of the water barricades, all in the interest of enhanced public safety over the barricades provided by the City.
Aldermen Hollis Shadden and Robin Moore had requested the barricades be discussed on the agenda.
Council had approved the event back in February of this year, and requested a Town Hall on Events be scheduled to discuss issues like the water barricades. That Town Hall still has yet to be scheduled as of this week.
Council also approved the JISD Homecoming parade for today, with a waiver of requiring event insurance.