Dear Editor: Re: New Westminster tenants forced out of homes after fire, The Record, Aug. 30.
I am one of the tenants who lives on Ash Street where a serious fire occurred on Thursday Aug. 29. I can't begin to express how impacted the tenants have been. Most of us are back in the building. Three units are not liveable and will be redone in time. Most are liveable but have a lingering smoke odour. The tenants are doing their best to cope and get back to a normal life. The underlying problem is the residual smell of smoke. Management has given some of us fans to help clear the smell and cleaned some carpets.
I would like to let the public know that all the resources that city hall has to help people in this situation came into play very quickly. I am personally very impressed and grateful for all the assistance we have received from all the departments - fire, police, emergency services, victim assistance, the Salvation Army and any that I have missed. Mayor Wayne Wright came by twice to see the building and the situation.
I encourage all apartment dwellers in New Westminster, management and owners, whether private or a company, to be vigilant and work together to maintain safe buildings. This is not something that I would want anyone to have to experience.
Jean Mitchell
New Westminster
