Freeport Fire Department battles structure fire on East Stephenson for 13 hours

The Freeport City Council convened on April 7, 2025, to address several pressing issues, including a significant report on a recent structure fire and discussions surrounding local ordinances.

The meeting commenced with a review of the fire incident that occurred on March 22, 2025, at a storage building on East Stephenson Street. Deputy Chief of the Freeport Fire Department provided a detailed account of the event, which began as a grass fire and escalated into a structure fire affecting two buildings. Fire crews responded promptly, but due to the fire's rapid spread and intensity, additional resources were requested from neighboring departments. The firefighting efforts lasted approximately 13 hours, involving around 120 personnel and an estimated 2.3 million gallons of water. Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported among the firefighters.

Following the fire report, the council moved on to discuss various departmental updates. The police department announced the successful acquisition of a $25,000 federal grant for new body-worn cameras, enhancing their operational capabilities. However, other departments, including finance and public works, reported no significant updates.

Alderman Sander raised concerns regarding a violation of residency ordinances, emphasizing the need for accountability and adherence to existing regulations. This prompted further discussion among council members about the implications of such violations and the importance of maintaining community standards.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted community concerns about residency requirements for city employees, the removal of fire hydrants, and the management of private roads. Residents expressed frustration over perceived neglect of infrastructure and the need for transparency regarding city operations.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of the fire department's efforts during the recent incident and a call for improved communication and respect between council members and the public. The council plans to revisit the residency ordinance issue in future meetings, ensuring that community voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes.