In the heart of Chelsea, city officials gathered under the bright lights of city hall to address a pressing crisis following a devastating nine-alarm fire at the former mill site on Forbes Street. The fire, which erupted on November 18, 2024, left several buildings in precarious states, prompting urgent discussions about public safety and the swift demolition of the damaged structures.

City Manager Bridal Maltez presented an emergency financial request to the Chelsea City Council, emphasizing the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of residents and rail commuters. The fire chief reported that while the blaze was largely contained, active flames remained hidden beneath the collapsed roof, making it impossible for firefighters to fully extinguish the fire without demolishing the building. The proximity of the site to the MBTA commuter rail line further complicated matters, as train operations were suspended until the threat of collapse was mitigated.

Maltez outlined a plan to allocate approximately $500,000 for the demolition, which would focus on the most hazardous sections of the site. He assured the council that the city would seek reimbursement for these costs through a municipal lien process, allowing them to recover funds from the property owner. This financial strategy aims to protect the city’s interests while addressing the immediate dangers posed by the unstable structures.

As the council deliberated, members expressed their concerns and sought clarity on the timeline for the demolition. Maltez reassured them that if approved, the most critical demolition work could be completed by the end of the week, significantly reducing the risk of further incidents.

The council unanimously agreed to move forward with the emergency preamble, recognizing the urgent need to act in the face of this unforeseen disaster. With the approval of the financial order, Chelsea is poised to take decisive steps to restore safety and order in the community, ensuring that such a crisis does not recur in the future. As the meeting concluded, the city manager committed to keeping the council updated on the progress of the demolition and the ongoing situation at the Forbes site, marking a pivotal moment in Chelsea’s response to this emergency.