City secures funding for emergency generators after storm crisis

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the implementation of a significant hazard mitigation grant aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness in the wake of Winter Storm Yuri. The grant, which was applied for two and a half years ago, will fund the acquisition of five new natural gas generators for critical facilities, including the recreation center, civic center, city hall, and two water plants.

The total cost of the project has risen to approximately $2.77 million due to inflation, which has increased the city's matching portion from 10% to 18.8%. Currently, the city has allocated $350,000 in its budget, with plans to amend the utility capital fund by an additional $75,000 for two generators at the water distribution plant. Furthermore, $250,000 will be reallocated from the half-cent fund to support the generator for the recreation center.

These generators are designed to provide reliable power during emergencies, particularly in situations involving flooding, which can disrupt operations and lead to costly damages. The recreation center has previously served as a shelter during storms, and the new generator will ensure it remains operational even during power outages. The generators will be permanently installed at elevated locations to mitigate the risk of flooding.

Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining environmental control within buildings, as prolonged power outages can lead to significant deterioration. The new systems will feature automatic transfer switches, ensuring that power is restored immediately when outages occur. The meeting concluded with a call for questions, highlighting the project's long timeline and the urgency of its implementation.