Cape Girardeau fire station closes amid mold and water concerns

Fire Station No. 1 in Cape Girardeau has been temporarily closed following concerns regarding water intrusion, moisture, and mold. While an internal department memo cited “air conditioning issues” as the reason for the closure, the Southeast Missouri Professional Firefighters Association IAFF Local 1084 has questioned this explanation. The union pointed to photos showing water dripping from ceilings and the city's instruction for firefighters to wear N95 masks when retrieving personal belongings from the second floor.

The union alleges that water and moisture issues have been documented in city fire stations since at least 2017, affecting living and sleeping areas. They are calling for an independent evaluation to find a permanent solution and are requesting the release of city records concerning repairs, testing, and expenditures related to these issues.

Additionally, the union expressed concern over proposed renovation funding. They claim one station requires between $3 million and $5 million in repairs, but the city is considering a $1.5 million partial solution. This dispute occurs while local firefighters are currently working without a contract.