Mehlville fire district board meets via telephone

Reeling from a month of tragedy, the Mehlville Fire Protection District Board of Directors recently took the first step toward re-establishing a routine when Treasurer Dan Ottoline and administrators met via telephone with Chairman Tom O’Driscoll.

O’Driscoll participated in the May 28 meeting via telephone from his bed at St. Louis University Hospital where he is recovering from an April 27 traffic accident in which he was seriously injured.

On April 29, former fire chief and board member Joseph Gaterman lost his battle with cancer. The two tragedies left the Mehlville board unable to conduct official business.

The May 28 meeting began 35 minutes late as technical difficulties prevented a phone connection. Once the board meeting began, it was punctuated with communication difficulties.

“You’re cutting out on the phone,” O’Driscoll said after being told there was a motion to pay the fire district’s bills. “Your phone is not sending your response. All in favor?”

“Aye,” said Ottoline who was seated at a table with Chief Ray Haddock, attorney John Hessel and Clerk Carla Juelfs.

“Did you aye it?” O’Driscoll asked.

“Yes, sir,” Ottoline said.

“So ordered,” O’Driscoll said.

Similar exchanges were conducted as the two board members discussed specific agenda items. All business was concluded within 10 minutes.

“I’d like to thank all the people who have sent cards and letters,” O’Driscoll said. “I’d also like to send my deepest condolences to the family of Joe Gaterman.”