Central Coventry FD still without pay

COVENTRY, R.I. (WPRI) – The Central Coventry Fire Department is entering its second week of working without pay and so far there is no solution in sight for the cash strapped district.

Payroll for 52 firefighters was missed for the first time because the fire district, a quasi-independent government agency, is on the verge of financial collapse.

It is facing a $1.6 million deficit.

Captain David Gorman told Eyewitness News the problems began after a rejection of the flat tax increase, the town's treasurer leaving, the tax collector retiring and the fire chief and assistant chief resigning.

He also says they are now looking for food assistance programs to help firefighters get what they need until the crisis is resolved.

Taxpayers say they are concerned about the issue, but are also concerned about rising tax rates.

An independent auditor has been hired to look at how the fiscal prices began and how it can be resolved.

Coventry firefighters are hoping once tax bills are sent out next week to residents they will start receiving paychecks again.