Resident defends Crowley fire chief, questions department's on‑scene procedures

Crowley — During public comment, resident Rick Villagiois addressed the council to defend Fire Chief Louis Romero and to ask questions about the department's response to a recent house fire.

Villagiois said he was speaking on behalf of citizens who felt the chief had been unfairly criticized and then asked the chief how seriously the department treats calls classified as "house fire" and whether all available personnel are dispatched. He asked whether fires can reignite and whether that is a reason crews might remain on scene longer. Villagiois also referenced an earlier claim that personnel stayed on site and had music and a keg while awaiting the fire marshal; he asked the chief to clarify what "having a good time" meant.

Chief Romero responded that when a house fire call comes in all available personnel who can respond will do so. He said remaining on scene after extinguishment is sometimes necessary, including when there is concern the fire might reignite or when safety checks remain to be completed. On the earlier allegation about music and a keg, the chief's comments recorded in the meeting were limited to the exchange during public comment.

Villagiois concluded by apologizing for what he called an "interrogation" of the chief at a prior hearing and said he appreciated the chief and his department.