By Kenneth C. Crowe
The Times Union

RENSSELAER, N.Y. — A century-old tradition of firefighters drinking beer in the city's firehouses died Wednesday night when the Common Council voted 6 to 1 to ban alcohol on city property due to safety and liability issues.

The action came in response to the State Liquor Authority finding beer was sold without a license in two of the three city firehouses during a check in July. The inspections were made after residents complained.

"We know what the tradition has been in this city," said Councilwoman Pat Jackson, who sponsored the resolution. "I'm very sorry to have to do this."

Councilman William Lithgow recalled his days as a volunteer when a beer was enjoyed in the social rooms. "We had the soda machines going with the beer bottles in the machines," Lithgow said. "But that was a different time. If we're going to be a first-class city, we're going to have to change our culture."

About 50 people attended the meeting at which firefighters spoke for and against the resolution.

Assistant Fire Chief Michael Stammel, who represents the city on the Rensselaer County Legislature, called the move a knee-jerk reaction.

Stammel said the city is telling its volunteers, "We're not going to offer you anything any more." He unsuccessfully urged the council to hold a hearing.

The Rensselaer City Fire Department uses both paid and volunteer personnel. Volunteers maintain friction between the paid personnel and the volunteers played a role in the SLA's inspection. The social areas are used by volunteers.

Capt. James Hammond of Engine 2 said drinking is part of socializing for the volunteers. Capt. Robert Fink of Engine 4 supported the council. "As a taxpayer, please take the alcohol from the firehouses," Fink said.

Daniel and Margaret Zukowski told the council they contacted the SLA. Margaret Zukowski, who ran unsuccessfully for the council two years ago, said she had concerns about people leaving the firehouses and driving after drinking.

Councilwoman Scarlet Palermo cast the only vote against the resolution, saying it was politically motivated.

Voting for the ban were Jackson, Lithgow, Albertine Felts, Lillian Dominski, Richard Mooney and Council President Charles Hall. Absent were Kimberli Conger, Dominick Tagliento and Brian Stall.

Copyright 2007 The Hearst Corporation
All Rights Reserved