Powell to install three outdoor warning sirens; council weighs placement and notice to nearby residents

City staff told the Powell City Council on April 15 that the city will install three outdoor warning sirens to provide outdoor tornado and severe-weather alerts across most of the city’s jurisdiction.

Andy Merritt, the city manager, said the council previously authorized procurement and that materials have been ordered. Steel poles are the remaining required delivery, expected in May. Staff presented three proposed locations intended to maximize coverage: a northwest location, a south-central location and a central location. Staff identified the proposed sites in meeting materials as (in staff slides) a central site, Bennett Farm and the site at the side/entrance of Glen Park (referred to in discussion as Scioto Glen Park). Merritt said the overall project budget is “around $200,000” and that some funds are already encumbered.

Merritt said the units will be primarily for outdoor…