Published: 11/25/2006
Day 3: Residents flock to Town Hall for help
By Matthew K. RoyStaff writer
DANVERS - People hardest hit by the chemical plant explosion took their first tangible steps yesterday toward piecing their lives back together.
The day began early in Town Hall, where Town Manager Wayne Marquis reassured about 100 anxious Danversport residents huddled by the building's entrance. "We're going to be with you all the way through this," said Marquis, who stood on a stairwell landing to address the crowd.
Marquis explained the damage suffered by 68 homes Wednesday in the vicinity of Bates and Riverside streets was substantial enough for the town to require they pass a safety inspection before residents could return home. Of that total, the town manager said, 10 homes were likely beyond repair.
"First and foremost, it needs to be done safely," Marquis said of residents' re-entry into Danversport.
By themselves, or through the town, residents must get licensed experts to inspect their home's gas service, electricity and chimney. Danvers Building Inspector Richard Maloney then will determine whether a house is safe to occupy.
People arrived at Town Hall before 10 a.m. to speak with aid workers from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, the American Red Cross and the state's insurance division. They were full of concern and questions as they listened to Marquis speak, in the aftermath of the explosion at a chemical plant at 126 Water St. at 2:46 a.m. Wednesday.
One resident asked about his pet, another about air quality. Can insurance adjusters get access to the neighborhood? The streets are being guarded, but what about the river? What if you left your license in your house? Children are scared; who's going to help them?
Marquis and other town officials answered what they could. The air is safe. Adjusters, like residents, need permission from police. The harbormaster and environmental police are patrolling the river. Police can print a version of your license. Schools will provide counseling.
Each time a cell phone rang, the owner answered it despite the setting. Every call was too important to miss.
Residents then took a red numbered ticket to reserve their place in line to talk to the help agencies. The Red Cross was there to resolve immediate problems related to food, clothing or shelter. The state sent representatives to answer questions about insurance. And MEMA assessed what long-term assistance would be needed to rebuild the neighborhood.
