Struthers senior van pulled from service for safety inspection

Struthers senior van pulled from service for safety inspection

STRUTHERS

The city’s senior van ran as usual Thursday, but Ed Wildes, safety-service director, said it won’t return to service until it’s thoroughly inspected and approved as safe.

Late this morning — after the van had come in for the day from transporting its senior-citizen passengers to doctor’s appointments, the grocery store and other locations — Wildes was in the process of making arrangements for the inspection.

Comments made during and after Wednesday evening’s public hearing at city hall — required of the city in order for it to apply for state funding for a new van — prompted Wildes’ decision to halt van services. He added that he made the decision upon council’s urging. Concerns raised included the van’s rusted-out step and door, and its faulty heating and air-conditioning systems.

Wildes said if the van passes the upcoming safety inspection, it will be returned to service immediately. If not, he’s not sure what the next step will be.

The city plans to apply for the state grant by March 21, and should learn of the outcome by July.