Ramapough Lenapes seek okay for ceremonial fire

Warwick — The Village of Warwick already granted permission to the Waywayanda branch of Ramapough Lenape Indian Nation Inc. to hold a powwow from May 16-18 at Veteran’s Memorial Park. Now, the group has asked to have a ceremonial fire throughout the weekend, a fire it described as small, consisting of no more than seven fireplace size logs in a central location away from the general public. Trustee George McManus said his concern lies with having a fire in a public place when the village’s code bans burning in general. “Summer is very dry,” he said. “I worry about having a fire.” Village attorney Michael Meth suggested that the group contact the Warwick Fire Department for guidelines and specifics on how to burn correctly. Even though the code bans burning in general, he said this fire will consist of logs. “Get a letter from the chief with his approval of the plan,” said Meth. “If we are going to do it at all, you have to have the fire department in the loop.” Still, the board voiced concerns. “I worry this sets a precedent,” said Trustee Eileen Patterson. “Anyone who wants a bonfire can do it with the fire chief’s approval?” Not necessarily. Mayor Michael Newhard said the board will have the final say, but he agreed with Meth that the group should contact the fire chief and see what they come up with. “Let’s give them the benefit of the doubt,” said Newhard. “We still have the final word.”