The Council’s Cold Shoulder to South Tacoma
A fiery exchange in the Tacoma City Council reveals deep tensions over public safety resources in the South Tacoma district.
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When Chairman Giblett of the fire, water and light committee failed to report on the recommendation of Fire Chief McAlevy that a third fireman be stationed at the South Tacoma hose house, he aroused the ire of Councilman Hawley, who accused Giblett of trying to suppress the recommendation. 'The chief recommended the placing of three new hydrants and one more fireman in South Tacoma,' said Hawley, 'and I want to know what right the chairman of a committee has to report on only a part of the recommendation.' The council failed to see the necessity, in view of the present financial condition of the city, and Hawley's motion for the extra fireman was lost. There are but two firemen stationed in South Tacoma. At meal hours, one is left in the house alone.
“South Tacoma needs another fireman, and if the committee will not report on the recommendation I will bring it before the council personally.”
Budgetary fights over basic infrastructure like fire protection are constant features of municipal life. The neglect of South Tacoma's safety needs 120 years ago echoes ongoing debates about equitable resource distribution in expanding districts.
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