In one afternoon, Detroit firefighters struggle against residents, fires and budget cuts
It wasn’t an unusual afternoon for the fire department. Just a typical day in a city where nothing is unusual anymore.
It wasn’t an unusual afternoon for the fire department. Just a typical day in a city where nothing is unusual anymore.
I decided to do what Pugh wouldn’t: Find out what’s really going on.
After another rash of suspected arsons in Detroit early this morning, the cash-strapped fire department found itself with faulty equipment, malfunctioning fire hydrants and broken-down trucks.
The city council is being laughed off the stage by everyone. Mayor Dave Bing has made himself unapproachable. And now there’s former Police Chief Ralph Godbee.
What makes this all the more bizarre is that Godbee would jeopardize his promising career and the city that has been depending on him – for sex.
Under the plan, the city could generate revenue from the island park and create new jobs by hosting concerts, a fair and other events. Corporate sponsorships also would raise money.
Fighting fires is becoming an increasingly difficult task because of recent budget cuts that have trimmed personnel, rigs and new equipment.
Duggan is being trumpeted by the media as the most electable white mayoral candidate since the early 1970s. The story is leading most local news sites, and he hasn’t officially decided whether he’s running.
The theft marks another embarrassing, eye-opening moment for a fire department battling more blazes with fewer firefighters, trucks and gear.
The state and Mayor’s Office failed to convince the council to approve the lease, which would have added at least $1.6 million to maintain the park.