In the town of Massena, the issue of fire inspections has become a pressing concern for local authorities. Patrick M. O'Brien, the newly appointed part-time code enforcement officer, has identified a significant financial shortfall in the revenue generated from these inspections. Over the past few years, the town has experienced a steady decline in collections, despite the number of businesses remaining relatively stable. This discrepancy has prompted a thorough review of the inspection process and associated fees, revealing inaccuracies in square footage calculations and inadequate follow-up procedures.

Addressing Financial Gaps in Fire Inspections

In the heart of upstate New York, the town of Massena is grappling with a critical challenge related to its fire inspection program. Since 2018, the town has faced a substantial drop in the revenue collected from fire inspections, which are essential for ensuring public safety. According to Patrick M. O'Brien, the town's part-time code enforcement officer, who took office in February, the town has been losing money on these inspections for several years. The situation became particularly alarming when it was discovered that out of the businesses operating in 2018, 11 did not receive the required inspections.

O'Brien's investigation revealed that between 2018 and 2023, the town should have collected approximately $6,000 annually from fire inspections. However, the actual figures were far lower, dropping from around $4,500 in 2018 to just $1,400 in 2023. One key factor contributing to this shortfall was the inaccurate recording of square footage for many businesses. In a review of 54 inspections, it was found that about 40% had no square footage entered into the system, leading to undercharging for inspections. For instance, seven large pre-existing businesses, including Alcoa and Arconic, should have been charged $500 per inspection, but the town was collecting only a fraction of that amount.

To address these issues, O'Brien has implemented changes aimed at improving transparency and accuracy. This year marks the first time since 2018 that all businesses in the system will undergo fire inspections, ensuring that the town can recoup the necessary funds while maintaining safety standards.

The challenges faced by Massena highlight the importance of rigorous oversight and accurate record-keeping in municipal services. By addressing these shortcomings, the town can not only improve its financial health but also ensure that its residents and businesses are protected. O'Brien's efforts serve as a reminder that even routine tasks like fire inspections require constant attention and reform to function effectively.