We, the undersigned residents of Verona, respectfully urge decision-makers to pause the proposed replacement of the recently damaged emergency siren located at the Verona Volunteer Fire Department at 465 Parker Street, and to use this moment as an opportunity to evaluate whether a loud, outdated outdoor siren remains the most appropriate solution for our community.

While we recognize the importance of public safety and emergency preparedness, we believe that before any replacement is approved, the following concerns warrant careful consideration:

1. Noise Impact

The siren causes significant disruption to residents, sounding at all hours and sometimes repeatedly. The volume, duration and frequency of alarms causes excessive noise pollution that distresses residents — especially young children, pets, individuals with sensory sensitivities, and those who work non-traditional hours. Frequent activations and false alarms disrupt daily life and undermine the peaceful character of our neighborhood.

2. Modern Alternatives Exist

Modern emergency notification systems are less disruptive and reach residents more directly, delivering faster and more targeted warnings without creating widespread noise disruption. Cell phone alerts, emergency notification apps, text messaging systems, and opt-in email notifications can reach residents instantly and deliver detailed information about emergencies.  Verona’s volunteer firefighters are already notified of emergencies with modern tools such as pagers and mobile alerts, residents  could similarly benefit from updated notification systems. The Borough of Verona notably operates an opt-in text messaging platform that could be expanded for this purpose.

3. Cost Efficiency

Replacing aging siren infrastructure represents a significant public expenditure at a time when more effective and modern alert systems are already available. Taxpayer funds would be better directed toward solutions that serve residents more effectively.

4. Community Input

Major infrastructure decisions that affect residents’ quality of life should include a period of public comment and community engagement before funds are committed. Residents deserve a voice in this decision.

We are not asking that emergency preparedness be diminished — we deeply respect the vital work of our first responders and want our community to be safe. We simply ask that local leaders take this opportunity to explore a better, less disruptive path forward — one that balances public safety with the well-being of all residents.

We respectfully request that repair or replacement of the siren be paused pending:

 1. An open community meeting to allow residents to voice their concerns

 2. A formal evaluation of alternate emergency alert systems

 3. Consideration of retiring the outdoor siren in favor of quieter, more targeted technology

Our community values both safety and quality of life. We believe a thoughtful review of modern solutions can honor both.

Thank you for your time and consideration