Longtime Construction Code Official and Building Inspector Jim Galantino is recovering from injuries sustained this week after a fall at a residential construction site.
Galantino was inspecting a residential property currently under construction when he fell into an elevator shaft that was waiting for its inner parts to be installed.
Galantino was seriously injured, breaking several ribs, injuring his back and sustaining lacerations to his face.
“He really got lucky,” Mayor Michael Collins confirmed early Saturday morning. “It’s really unfortunate but despite the pain and injuries, he is very optimistic for his recovery. He already said he wants to get back to work soon.”
Collins said he believes Galantino was reading blueprints when he took a misstep and fell. The city’s first responder team from the Margate City Police and Fire departments responded to treat him at the scene and transport him to the hospital.
“It could have been a lot worse,” the mayor said. “He got lucky. Had he fallen a foot or two in another direction, it would have been much worse.”
Collins said he is unsure if Galantino is still in the hospital, but he spoke with him Friday and earlier Saturday morning, and despite pain and some swelling issues, Galantino is “in great spirits,” he said.
“We are optimistic for his recovery,” Collins said. “He’s dedicated. (Zoning Officer) Roger (McLarnon) is working to fill the void in his absence.”
Collins said he was unsure if Galantino was still in the hospital. Attempts to reach Galantino were unsuccessful.
Collins said he was not aware of any violations being issued on the jobsite. “This was so unfortunate, but we are lucky he’s doing ok,” Collins said.
