Camden County officials address recurring EMR fires and community health concerns

The Camden County Board of Commissioners convened on March 20, 2025, to address pressing community concerns, particularly regarding safety and environmental issues stemming from recent incidents at the EMR facility.

The meeting began with a presentation from an armed security company seeking to collaborate with local authorities to enhance safety in residential areas, specifically Roosevelt Manor and Sheridan Apartments. The representative highlighted ongoing issues such as break-ins, harassment due to drug activities, and general unsafe conditions in these communities. The board advised the company to connect with the Camden Housing Authority for potential security contracts.

Following this, public comments focused heavily on the recent EMR fire, which raised significant alarm among residents. Kate Delaney, a local resident, expressed her concerns about the environmental impact of the fire, urging the commissioners to hold EMR accountable and implement a fire suppression system. The commissioners acknowledged the unacceptable conditions at the facility and confirmed ongoing discussions with EMR to address these issues.

Kevin Barfield from Camden for Clean Air emphasized the need for stricter operational oversight of the EMR facility, citing past incidents and the potential hazards posed to the community. He called for the county's support in demanding better safety measures and regulations.

Mike Morgan, another resident, shared personal experiences of evacuating his family due to EMR fires, highlighting the emotional toll on children and the disruption to daily life. He urged the commissioners to facilitate a public forum for residents to voice their concerns and to advocate for stricter regulations on scrap metal facilities.

The commissioners responded to these concerns, stating they are awaiting a fire marshal's report to develop a comprehensive action plan. They acknowledged the need for improved communication from EMR to residents during emergencies and committed to keeping the public informed as they work towards solutions.

The meeting concluded with a motion to close the public hearing, but not before the commissioners reiterated their commitment to addressing the community's safety and environmental concerns. The board emphasized the importance of collaboration between local government, residents, and EMR to prevent future incidents and ensure the well-being of Camden County residents.