Building/Fire Inspection Update

Last week in preparation for beginning our participation in the Men's Shelter for our 4th year, we had a routine fire inspection.  In light of increased safety measures by the city and our expanding ministries, we have a list of fire safety violations that need to be resolved within 30 days.

Things we are celebrating:

• In the course of the inspection, the structural integrity of the building came into question because of an I-beam that was tampered with at some point in the distant past.  A structural engineer inspected it this week and ensured that there is no issue for concern when it comes to the building's structural integrity.  YEAH! We get to stay open for Easter!
• Questions were raised as to if we would be able to use the basement at all without putting in a sprinkler system.  The fire department has said that once the other issues are resolved, we will be able to use the basement for children and small group activities.  The exception will be sleeping in the basement.
• While not using the basement for Men's Shelter will be some inconvenience, it is not a show stopper for us housing and feeding those in need through our building.  The Fire inspector is willing to work with us on the Men's Shelter, allowing us to begin our participation prior to our resolving all the safety issues, provided we show a good faith effort by April 9th, when he will inspect our progress to officially sign off (or not) on our conditional participation with the Shelter.  We will then be inspected at the end of our 30 days to be able to continue our participation.
• Our building will be even safer and more welcoming for our guests!

What do we need to do?

This week a walk through the building was completed to compile a list of concerns that need to be addressed.  Details are still being researched to some degree, but work has already begun.

People are here nearly every evening since this past Monday night.  Work ranges from electrical to dry wall to handling clothing and more.  To find out how you can help out, contact Tim Qualkenbush @ Tim@ImagineLifeDifferently.com.