During last Tuesday’s Seaford Council meeting, Seaford Volunteer Fire Department personnel were recognized for their recent heroic actions. Mayor Matt MacCoy read aloud the recognition for the courage, dedication, teamwork, and heroic actions displayed during a residential structure fire at Yorktown Lane on March 21.

The event began when the fire department was informed that smoke was coming from the attic, that however were informed that all occupants were out of the building. Upon arrival, Assistant Chief Jason Hudson moved inside and located a room near the entry that was on fire. Firefighters John Cartledge and Ty Matthews operated the hose, and Captain Robert Sharp searched the fire area for victims. Firefighter EMT James Durr was familiar with the layout of the residence and moved to the back of the home where the bedrooms are located. Durr found an unconscious female victim on the floor and, with the assistance of Sharp, they moved the victim to the hallway. The victim was then moved outside with the assistance of Assistant Chief Hudson.

The rescue of a life happened because the firefighters conducted a search, even though the initial report said that all occupants had exited the building. The firefighters who were recognized included: Assistant Chief Jason Hudson, Captain Robert Sharp, Firefighter EMT James Durr, Firefighter Ty Matthews, Firefighter EMT Larry Whaley, Firefighter EMT Lewis Donofrio, and Firefighter John Cartledge. Mayor MacCoy said, “The city of Seaford extends heartfelt gratitude to each member for their heroic actions, exceptional service, and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of the citizens of Seaford.”

Director of Electric Greg Brooke came before council and presented a request for a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Seaford and the Global Union 126 IBW for modifications to the progression plan. The update is the expected time in each position before promoting to the next position. The change is the minimum amount of time required in each position, from 18 months to 12 months. Councilman Michael Bradley pointed out that the original time was 12 months and the request is reverting back to where it was before collective bargaining. Vice Mayor Dan Henderson inquired if this would open up an issue of having to go back, with additional requests and amended the agreement several times. City Manager Charles Anderson responded and told council that he did not think it would be the issue. Anderson explained this is the second contract with the union, and when the workers approached Brooke with their concern, he listened, worked with the union representative, and the city to resolve their issue. The request was unanimously approved by council.

The council approved the requested annexation by Andrew Chupp for the home located at 2335 Atlanta Road. The committee, which was led by Councilwoman Stephanie Grassett and included Councilmen Henderson and Alan Quillen, reviewed the engineering reports completed by SiteWorks Engineering. The committee reviewed the submitted drawings and information. The engineering firm worked with the city to help the property owner get this annexation request to city council. Chupp indicates the reason for requesting annexation is to receive city utilities. In addition, the annexation requests a zoning of low-density R1 residential zoning in the city of Seaford under the Seaford zoning ordinance. Councilman Henderson noted the land currently does not meet the city standards and will need to work with the code department to make sure it meets city code.

Friday Night Live will be held on Sept. 4 at 5 p.m. behind city hall.