FOX 21 News, KQDS-DT

DULUTH - It was standing room only at Monday's city council meeting.

But most guests showed up for an item that was not on the agenda.

Dozens of Park Point neighbors came out to show their opposition to the closure of their only fire hall.

A fire study presented to the city suggested the closure of Station No. 5.

Neighbors took to the podium to address the council and handed in more than 600 signatures that petitioned the closure of the hall.

Home owners, including the state's lieutenant governor, said they were worried about safety and security without a first responder on the point.

"I think it's very important that they feel secure in the ones they live in," Lt. Gov. Yvonne Prettner Solon said. "If they do not have the safety of emergency medical services or fire protection, I think it would be very difficult for them to live in their homes on Park Point."

Another resident expressed concern about the lack of emergency services with incoming hotels and development.

"Was it responsible or ethical to develop more hotels, build more property and invite more guests and not provide any emergency protection?" she said.

The city council is set to have a presentation of the fire study and the hall closure at its meeting on May 29, and plan to meet with residents the week before.

Because the topic was not set to be acted on during Monday’s meeting, it is unknown whether the petitions from residents will affect the decision to close the hall on June 1.