An investigation is underway after the Hallowell Pride Alliance claimed the Hallowell Fire Department failed to fulfill its duties and discriminated against the LGBTQ+ community.
It stems from the annual Hallowell Pride parade in June when volunteer firefighters reportedly declined to provide coverage, according to the Kennebec Journal.
In emails between officials before the event, the police chief had asked the fire chief to provide personnel, but the fire chief said he did not see this request until a day before the event.
Then, right before the parade, organizers said they were told staffing shortages would affect traffic control and security personnel.
The fire department appeared during the event but had no communication with organizers.
In an email to a councilor’s spouse after the event, the fire chief reportedly said no one wanted to work the parade.
City Manager Gary Lamb said fire department members have their own opinions and have the right not to work on weekends.
Lamb will be meeting with police and fire chiefs next month to discuss parade safety, according to the Kennebec Journal.
Meanwhile, city officials are planning to consult with lawyers to investigate the claims and plan to discuss the issue further at the upcoming City Council meeting.
