His comment was honest, admitting he made an initial knee jerk reaction following notice of a road closure decision that would effect his business. He over reacted and could have resolved it quickly by contacting the fire department, which he later did.
I guess for me the question is WHEN did owner contact the fire department. If he did it before the public outcry, then no problem. Everyone makes mistakes. I would continue to patronize his business.
But if he contacted the fire department only after the public outcry, then I think his heart is in a different place.