AVENAL, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – The Kings County Fire Department is calling out the City of Avenal for its plans to hold an event at a venue where “there are fire and life safety concerns.”

Kings County Supervisor Richard Valle took to social media Friday night to share the concern.

“Some information was brought to my attention last night,” he began in a live recording. “It’s something I believe is important enough to relay to you.”

He continued on, explaining that this Sunday’s boxing event is scheduled to be held in the Avenal Community Center – a building the Kings County Fire Department says is “under construction and still unapproved for occupancy.”

That information was presented in a March 26 letter from the Fire Chief Chamberlin to the City of Avenal, which reads in part:

“Based on current information, the building does not meet the minimum requirements necessary to ensure the safety of occupants, and there are fire and life safety concerns if the event were to proceed. Accordingly, we do not authorize the use or occupancy of this structure for any event or gathering.”

The Kings County Fire Association backed the sentiment.

“We do not support Avenal City’s decision to hold a boxing event this Sunday in a facility that does not meet fire code requirements. Hosting an event under these conditions places citizens and visitors at unnecessary risk.

“This is not about politics, it’s about protecting lives and ensuring a safe environment for our community.”