Mayor Moore outlines storm cleanup, seeks federal aid and warns debris pickup could take months

Mayor Moore told the Kewanee City Council on July 22 that recovery from last week’s storms has relied on city departments, mutual aid and volunteers, and that the city is pursuing federal disaster assistance to help cover debris removal costs.

Moore thanked public works, police, fire and administration staff, Ameren crews, tree services and volunteer groups — including approximately 30 men from an Amish community — for cleanup efforts. He singled out Mat Schnepple and the Office of Emergency Management for repeated assistance to the city.

The mayor said approval of federal disaster funds depends on the statewide damage total; if the federal assistance is granted the process to provide pickup assistance can begin in a few weeks. If the city must shoulder debris removal without federal assistance, Moore warned, the work could take months because crews will also perform regular duties such as street maintenance. Residents able to transport limbs and branches were directed to drop them at the old hospital parking lot on W. Division St.

Moore also reported patch work on W. South St. was completed and thanked volunteers who supported the recent Prairie Chicken Arts Festival. The Kewanee Police Department announced National Night Out for Aug. 6 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with swimming, a K-9 demonstration and community booths.

What happens next: City staff will pursue federal disaster assistance and coordinate debris removal; the city will notify residents about pickup schedules if and when funding is secured.