storm damage recovery

City Council unanimously passed Resolution 26-013 authorizing a letter supporting a proposed state disaster-recovery grant program for individuals and businesses when federal aid is unavailable.

The proposed state program would set aside $30 million for people and businesses affected by natural disasters, contingent on state legislation being enacted.

Electric utility staff reviewed the April 19 storm response, including mutual-aid crews from multiple cities and specialized equipment used to replace poles and restore service.

Wastewater staff reported that the May 17 windstorm caused outages at the treatment plant and 11 lift stations. Crews rotated portable generators and pumps for about 23 consecutive hours to prevent overflows.

The Public Utilities Committee accepted MEUW’s out-of-state mutual-aid agreement, setting billable rates for labor, equipment and other costs when utilities assist each other across state lines.

Public Works reported handling more than 360 loads of brush after the May 17 windstorm, along with damage to sidewalks and traffic signals.

Staff estimated that 30 to 50 sidewalk panels may need replacement at about $400 each, for an estimated total above $20,000.

Staff said storm work will likely reduce this year’s colored-concrete crosswalk work from two locations to one and delay planned City Hall parking-deck repair or replacement.

Staff identified pressure on the Solid Waste Utility budget and said leaf collection may be shortened by two to three weeks to help offset storm-related costs.

The Library Board received a city representative’s update that included storm damage among current city matters; the board took no action on the topic.