In Lewis County, serious public safety concerns face the small community of Onalaska.
First, members of the volunteer fire department started resigning in November, upset about the way things were being managed. Last week, Onalaska's fire station was shut down because of safety concerns.
A notice from the Department of Labor and Industries is still posted on the front door of Lewis County Fire District 1. Inside, there is rotted wood and holes in the walls and ceiling. L & I also noted that hazardous working conditions include mold, asbestos, and mice droppings. In addition to that, former Fire Commissioner Jeff Lee says they have lost about 55% of the department. Volunteer firefighters started resigning in November. Some said they were upset about the way commissioners were involved in day-to-day operations.
"I decided to resign after our last meeting," said Lee.