Members of the Jackson Fire Department’s union are raising concerns about “poor working conditions” at 19 of the city’s 21 fire stations, including mold, mildew, broken air conditioning and heating and dealing with rodents.
But according to Assistant Fire Chief Patrick Armon, JFD’s administration, led by Fire Chief Willie Owens, is aware of the issues at several stations, but have had to “prioritize” repairs due to limited funding.
What’s clear is the relationship between the union and the fire administration is an adversarial one, which both sides readily admit.
‘This is a matter of public health concern’
The Clarion Ledger reviewed over 25 photos and 10 videos of the conditions at several stations, sent by RaSean Thomas, the current president of JFD’s Local 87 Union and a JFD firefighter for more than 20 years. Of the approximately 280 firefighters employed at JFD, 220 are a part of the union, according to Thomas…