FOLLANSBEE - A request for video surveillance cameras to deter crime in residential areas of the city, concerns about fallen trees and a recent fire on Marquette Avenue were among issues before Follansbee City Council on Monday.
City Police Chief John Schwertfeger asked council to consider approving two cameras, one for the city's 2nd Ward and another for the 4th Ward, at its next regular meeting at 6 p.m. Feb. 13.
Schwertfeger said two cameras approved by council last month have been installed in the 2nd Ward, with video recorders connected to them placed in homes with the cooperation of residents.
Unlike cameras posted at Follansbee Park, the cameras aren't rigged so they can be viewed by computer at the city's police station or in a police cruiser. But they will allow police to play back video footage of any crimes committed in the neighborhoods, Schwertfeger said.
In October residents of the ward complained of burglaries, car thefts, gas siphoning and vandalism. A few posted signs warned some would use force against trespassers. Some residents have posted signs indicating they have mounted their own security cameras.
Police and other city officials called meetings to form a neighborhood watch program and encourage residents not to take the law into their own hands but report any suspicious behavior.
Schwertfeger said residents of the ward haven't been notified formally of the cameras but are aware of them.
City Manager John DeStefano said he heard from a resident who applauded the effort.
Schwertfeger said he will ask council to support additional cameras in other residential areas of the city.
He said the first two cameras cost about $3,000 each, including recording equipment, and were purchased from United Security of Wellsburg.
Mayor David Velegol Jr. said it's been suggested that cameras could be moved to and from various areas of the city as needed.
In other business, 4th Ward Councilwoman Iris Ferrell suggested the city adopt an ordinance setting guidelines for trees. The suggestion comes after several trees fell on homes on East Street during a strong wind storm on Jan. 2.
DeStefano and other city officials said with the exception of trees planted along Main Street and in the city's parks, residents are responsible for those planted on their property up to the curbs in front of their homes.
He said the city filed a claim with its insurance company for damages caused by the trees on East Street because it had removed the sidewalk there, exposing the trees' roots, while preparing to replace the walk.
Ferrell said many residents may not be aware of their responsibility in maintaining the trees.
"If people want them (the trees), they've got to maintain them for their own safety. We have some trees that could take out a house."
In related business, East Street resident Chuck Winters thanked city officials, including the city manager and the police and fire chiefs for their prompt response to the incident and handling of the matter.
Ferrell also reported on efforts by community members to help Jim and Janet Ford, whose home on Marquette Avenue was damaged by fire Saturday.
Ferrell, whose ward includes the street, said many neighbors and others quickly offered money and help to the couple, and she was moved by their compassion. She and resident Dorothy Sheetz are continuing to collect donations for the family, which includes two children in college.
Ferrell encouraged anyone wanting to help to call her at (304) 527-3249.
City Fire Chief Larry Rea, who was called for comment, said the cause of the fire hasn't been determined but it's believed to have started in the home's basement garage.
Rea said the fire spread quickly into the walls and attic, causing substantial damage.
He said a neighbor saw a vehicle in the driveway and thinking someone was at home, opened the front door and was struck by glass that blew out of a front window. Rea said the man was treated on the scene by the Brooke County Ambulance Service.
City firefighters were assisted by the Hooverson Heights Fire Department in extinguishing the blaze.
Rea said the state Fire Marshal's Office has been called to investigate.
