Storms, contractor incidents and quick restoration: Eldridge utility operations report

Utility operations staff reported a string of recent field events and maintenance updates at the April 7 meeting.

Staff described a high‑wind event that caused downed poles and outages on Buttermilk Road and other locations; crews isolated sections and replaced poles, restoring service. A falling tree at 616 South Street required a one‑hour service outage while crews cleared and repaired the service. A contractor tree‑trimming incident on West Elmford Street briefly affected roughly 170 customers for about 10 minutes before crews cut the obstruction and restored power. Staff also reported a short, city‑wide circuit blink that interrupted service to about 3,039 customers for roughly 30 seconds.

On operations readiness, staff said they tested a portable generator and transfer switch successfully and reported that Well No.4 was fully rebuilt (drilled to 472 feet) and returned to service with no observed productivity loss. Hydrant flushing is scheduled to begin in the next two weeks and is expected to run for about two months; staff said they will post daily flushing maps and notifications.

An IUC inspector visited for an inspection and staff expected a written report in three to four weeks describing any required corrections. Board members asked follow‑up questions about pole locations, contractor oversight and whether the department must add personnel for expanded plant operations; staff said most work will be handled with current crews and noted potential modest staffing needs for a large plant expansion.

The board recorded no formal action on outages beyond the informational update.