Number of intentionally set fires slow inspections at Kennedy Plaza Apartments

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Number of intentionally set fires slow inspections at Kennedy Plaza Apartments

By EVAN WHITE

Story Created: Jul 15, 2008 at 11:20 AM EST

Story Updated: Jul 15, 2008 at 6:20 PM EST

UTICA - 26 intentionally set fires have taken place citywide this year. Investigations into those and other fires have delayed routine building inspections.

One of the shelved inspections is at Kennedy Plaza Apartments in downtown Utica, where smoke detector problems lead to evacuation trouble for residents last month.

The high-rise had 2 fires in early June, both were unintentional yet residents could have been in serious danger because smoke alarms did not go off. The reason? Alarms in the apartments are not connected with those in common areas like hallways.

Firefighters say the alarm system is up to code but residents are upset with the current system. A candle left on an 11th floor apartment on June 8th caused a fire few were aware of at the outset. Because of the difficulty evacuating, many are calling for a change.

A November fire department report cites 33 issues regarding fire safety. Fire Officials say Kennedy Plaza Management has been cooperative fixing problems in years past, residents still don't feel safe.

"I live on the third floor and some guy told me that there was a fire upstairs, I was out here on the balcony," says one resident.

"There are elderly people with disabilities, I am not happy with it. I think it's dangerous," said another.

Firefighters would like to get back inside the building to inspect it again, but are focusing their attention on incendiary fires such as the fire that broke out July third on West Street.

Repeated calls to Kennedy Management were not returned. A public meeting with residents, management and city officials is scheduled for Thursday at 5:00. During the meeting, they are expected to discuss all security issues.

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