Commission hears briefing from fire marshal on recent Fourth Street fires; public sessions planned

The Galveston Landmark Commission on April 21 held a discussion with Fire Marshal Chris Harrison about recent fires affecting properties on Fourth Street and planned public outreach about fire safety for historic buildings.

Daniel, a staff member, said the commission placed the item on the agenda to allow questions and noted the city and the Galveston Historical Foundation will host informational sessions focused on fire sprinklers and safety at the Wortham Auditorium, Rosenberg Library, on April 23 at 5:30 p.m. and April 30 from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Chris Harrison, the city fire marshal, said the official cause of the investigated fires remains “undetermined,” meaning investigators have not been able to identify a single origin or to rule out other possible causes. “Officially, the case when we left is not determined,” Harrison said.

Harrison explained that if a heavily damaged building is declared unsafe it can be demolished under public‑safety procedures rather than coming before the commission. He said property owners have opportunities to make decisions about repair, demolition or sale before the court system declares the structure unsafe. “If something's declared unsafe, then it's because it's a public health and safety concern, then we just approve the demolition,” Harrison said.

Commissioners and residents asked about firefighting operations, water pressure and construction types such as balloon framing; Harrison described operational practices including placing pumpers to boost pressure when ladder trucks require sustained supply lines and said firefighters preplan for local construction types. He also said retrofits and best practices can reduce vulnerability in older buildings. The city and Galveston Historical Foundation will present the planned public sessions as teachable moments about fire safety in historic structures.