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Gravel work pulls electrical service from house; Chula public works updates streets
Summary
During gravel-spreading work, a driver pulled the electrical service from a Chula resident's home; the board heard street-grading and gravel updates and noted public works staffing changes while the supervisor undergoes surgery.
Chula public works crews and contractors have been grading streets and beginning gravel placement in low-lying flats and the north side of town, the board heard March 11. While Hinnen's crews spread gravel, one driver accidentally pulled the electrical service out of a house owned by Kerri Ralls; City Clerk Ann Hamilton contacted Ralls and she inspected the damage.
Why it matters: The incident displaced or interrupted electrical service at a private residence and highlights infrastructure coordination needs when contractors operate near utility lines. The city is awaiting additional gravel deliveries to complete planned street work.
Public works supervisor Fred Oertwig told the board he has been grading streets and that Hinnen's crews have started spreading gravel but will need more material. Oertwig said he expects to be able to read meters and reported that Evergy has been replacing numerous poles in the area. Oertwig also said he will have knee replacement surgery and will require a doctor's release to return to work; the board arranged for Alderman Benny Simpson to perform locates while Oertwig is off.
The board did not take separate formal action on the gravel contract or the electrical-service incident at the March 11 meeting; bids for related projects will be awarded at the next regular meeting.
