Fire chief says Aspen Place condemnation driven by life-safety risks; city and nonprofits mobilized aid
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Summary
Johnson County Fire District No. 1 Chief Trigg Morley described emergency conditions that led to the city’s condemnation of Aspen Place Apartments and outlined subsequent response and coordination with city and community organizations to assist displaced residents.
Trigg Morley, fire chief of Johnson County Fire District No. 1, told the Gardner City Council the decision to condemn Aspen Place Apartments was made because roadway failures prevented safe emergency response, endangering residents.
Why it matters: The condemnation displaced residents and prompted a multi-agency and community response for shelter and basic needs; city leaders described large-scale volunteer and nonprofit assistance that followed.
Chief Morley said the action was taken “solely out of the concern for the safety of the people who live there” and described an incident on May 4 when a fire apparatus “sank literally to its frame in the middle of the street due to failed roadway surface,” which made “it physically unsafe and impossible to operate emergency vehicles in the complex.” He said that condition left “no other option” than to recommend condemnation to protect life safety.
Morley detailed immediate relief efforts and partnerships: Fire District 1 and city representatives joined Johnson County government, local nonprofits, faith-based organizations and businesses to stand with residents at Grace Baptist Church, providing shelter, food, transportation and other basic needs. He said Fire District 1 returned on subsequent days to support a resource center and adjusted emergency response plans for the site.
Council members and city staff publicly thanked emergency responders, communications staff and dozens of volunteers and nonprofit partners for rapid aid. City leadership listed organizations that helped arrange temporary and longer-term housing and support, including Hope Market, Mission Southside, Salvation Army, USA Olathe, Joy Closet, Rotary Club, Project 10/20, Johnson County Aging and Human Services Utility Assistance Program, Church of the Resurrection and Grace Baptist Church, and said community donations and coordination helped cover housing, first-month rent and other needs.
No legal appeal or ordinance change was reported at the meeting; Chief Morley said the condemnation decision and subsequent operations were driven by immediate safety concerns and coordination with city staff.