Garden State Times

On February 21, a major fire broke out at the EMR facility on South Front Street, Camden, New Jersey. The incident resulted in heavy smoke visible from over 15 miles away, affecting the local community significantly. In response, Mayor Victor Carstarphen's administration has secured a $6.7 million commitment from EMR to support the impacted residents of the Waterfront South neighborhood and surrounding areas.

According to the agreement, EMR will contribute $4.5 million this year, with an additional $450,000 each year over the next five years. The funds will also be used to enhance the fire suppression system at the EMR site and compensate the city’s fire department for mitigating the fire.

Mayor Carstarphen stated, "The agreement that my administration negotiated...provides meaningful compensation to the city’s waterfront south community, helps to safeguard against the threat of fire and outlines meaningful changes at its location." He assured residents that EMR will fulfill its commitments.

The fire displaced over 100 families, prompting collaborative efforts from city leadership and other governmental bodies to aid the community. The agreement will require EMR to modify its operations, including reducing its footprint by nine acres, increasing material inspections, limiting storage, and reducing shredding pile heights. Additionally, EMR will implement an upgraded aerial fire suppression system certified by safety experts.

Community leader Carlos Morales emphasized the agreement's significance, stating, "The February fire was a wake-up call...we’ve demanded accountability and real investment—not just words or promises." He acknowledged the community's role in holding EMR accountable and expressed gratitude to Mayor Carstarphen for his leadership.

The Sacred Heart parish has played a supportive role during the crisis, with Pastor Vincent Guest stating, "I remember so well the afternoon of the fire...This investment is a significant step to ensure the safety of our community."

EMR plans to invest over $3 million into the Waterfront South community and work with a designated advisory group to ensure effective development. Initiatives include a text notification system for residents and neighborhood clean-ups.

The Camden City Fire Department will benefit from EMR's commitment to conducting up to four fire drills annually and planning emergency management events with community participation.

Local officials, including Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli Jr. and Camden City Council President Angel Fuentes, support the agreement, acknowledging progress in preventing future incidents. Council Vice President Arthur Barclay affirmed, "This is real progress for those families who were impacted the most."

The arrangement will be formalized through a memorandum of understanding between the Mayor, City Council, and EMR, and all fire suppression efforts will be overseen by fire safety experts.

In light of the fire, Assemblyman William Moen introduced legislation to enhance public safety and corporate accountability. Moen recognized Camden's swift action in securing EMR's financial commitment and emphasized the collaborative effort of community leaders and officials in pursuing environmental justice.

EMR USA CEO Joseph Balzano asserted the agreement's long-term benefits, stating, "This MOU strengthens our commitment to the waterfront south neighborhood and underscores my dedication to keeping our site safe."