THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1997, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Monday, February 3, 1997 TAG: 9702020003
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A10 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 30 lines
What can be on the minds of those hotel owners who have neglected to install sprinkler systems in their hotels for seven years? Not only is this a disaster looking for a place to happen, but a public-relations nightmare for our city as well.
It is amazing that, with all of the money and lobbying efforts that our Hotel-Motel Association engages in to enhance tourism in our city, it would permit some of its own members to continue business as usual with the potential risk to human lives, as well as risking devastation to our coveted tourism industry.
I would urge the association to take care of its own back yard before carrying its burning issue to Richmond. I agree with Delegate Croshaw, who doesn't think it would be good for those hotels to close.
I have a suggestion for those who have dragged their feet for seven years - hold their feet to the fire before anyone gets burned and enforce the sanctions on March 1, 1997. If an extension is granted, have the owners submit a bond subject to forfeiture for noncompliance.
I also have a suggestion on what to do with the monetary fines and/or bond - put the money into a special fund to increase police and fire protection throughout the city.
ROBERT W. MATHIESON
Virginia Beach, Jan. 25, 1997