Palm Bay Mayor Steve Dillard has unveiled new plans for The Compound following 10 fires in the area over the past year. The fires, which occurred between January 2023 and December 2023, prompted a review of safety protocols at the mixed-use development near the intersection of Saturn Boulevard and Brevard Avenue. Dillard said the incidents have highlighted the need for stricter oversight and updated fire prevention strategies.
The Compound, which opened in 2019, has been a focal point for community events and business growth in the city’s southern district. However, fire officials reported that 7 of the 10 incidents involved unpermitted electrical work in residential units. Dillard confirmed that city inspectors have begun a month-long audit of all properties within the development.
The mayor’s proposal includes mandatory fire-resistant materials for future construction, increased frequency of inspections, and a public awareness campaign about fire safety. Dillard said the city council will vote on the measures at its next meeting on April 15.
Residents have mixed reactions. Maria Gonzalez, a long-time resident, said the changes are overdue. 'I’ve seen wires exposed in the walls,' she said. Others, like business owner James Carter, expressed concern about increased costs. 'We need safety, but we also need to keep the community affordable,' he said.
The city has not yet released a timeline for implementing the new rules. Dillard said the goal is to balance safety with economic growth. 'We can’t ignore the risks,' he said. 'But we also can’t let fear stop progress.'