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West Milwaukee officials report Pick ’n Save fire, raise concerns about loitering; administration to propose ordinance changes
Summary
Assistant Chief Donovan told the Village Board the April 15 Pick ’n Save fire was potentially caused by a delivery driver discarding a cigarette; Administrator Egan reported increased loitering and panhandling on National Avenue and asked staff to consider ordinance changes and signage.
Assistant Chief Donovan told the West Milwaukee Village Board on April 21 that a fire at the Pick ’n Save on April 15 "was potentially started by a delivery driver flicking a cigarette into cardboard boxes," prompting a response from ten fire trucks. He said the store discarded affected food, the generator was damaged and the store reopened quickly.
Donovan said the fire response highlighted the department’s operational demands; he added the department anticipates administering a test that could lead to hiring one or two new officers. He also reported that the part-time parking enforcement officer is performing well.
Administrator Egan told trustees the village has seen a rise in loitering and panhandling on medians along National Avenue and Miller Park Way and suggested staff consider ordinance amendments to prohibit the activities and add signage. He also said a business on S. 38th Street requested a trash container because staff have been regularly cleaning up illegally dumped waste; Trustee Ragonese said he would forward that request.
President John Stalewski said he and Administrator Egan met with Congresswoman Gwen Moore, who expressed interest in VA parking concerns raised by the village.
No formal ordinance was adopted at the meeting; Administrator Egan’s suggestion to pursue amendments and additional signage will be subject to staff follow-up and further board consideration after the administration and police prepare recommendations.
