It has been brought to my attention that residents living in the vicinity of the Station Two firehouse on the corner of Briggs Street and Woodbury Road have been knocking on doors of their neighbors claiming that the fire district plans to condemn property to rebuild the firehouse.

Not only does the district have no such intention, but the board of fire commissioners passed a board resolution on July 8, 2003 stating that it "has no intention of using the power of eminent domain for attaining property for the Station Two renovation."

As chairman of the board of the fire commissioners and a 32-year volunteer member of the department, I am furious that individuals who are well-aware of the passing of this resolution would spread rumors. It is actions such as this that can unfairly damage the reputation of the board of fire commissioners.

Residents should be aware that district officials are available to provide the facts and to answer any questions regarding fire district matters. The phone number is 933-6445.

William McKee

Chairman, Hicksville Board of Fire Commissioners