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Township delays decision on taking ownership of Xcel sirens amid cost and liability concerns
Summary
Silver Creek Township supervisors discussed whether to accept ownership of Xcel emergency sirens and voted to delay a decision two weeks to gather more information; the motion passed 3-1. Concerns included cost, potential tax impact, liability, and how nuclear plant notifications would be handled.
During new business on Sept. 3, 2024 the Silver Creek Township Board discussed whether to accept ownership and responsibility for Xcel-owned emergency sirens. Board members and some residents raised concerns about long-term maintenance costs, tax impacts, liability, and whether county activation and vendor maintenance/replacement services would remain available.
Supervisor Ryan Nelson moved for a two-week extension to allow the township to gather additional information and consult neighboring townships; Vice Chairman Brandon Geyen seconded the motion. The minutes record the motion carried 3-1. The board said it will contact surrounding townships to learn their conclusions on accepting siren ownership before making a final decision.
The discussion focused on weighing ongoing maintenance and replacement responsibilities against any public-safety benefits of local ownership. No final transfer or acceptance of the sirens was recorded at the meeting.
