Drainage pipe melted by lightning: Mayor
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. » City Hall remains closed as workers continue to assess and repair damage caused by a lightning strike Friday.
Mayor Meg Kelly provided an update on the situation Tuesday.
A drainage pipe in the roof was struck and melted, causing heavy rains to pour into the building. The pipe was repaired without delay, but the damage is substantial and the city’s preparing for alternative work and operation arrangements, she said in a news release.
Water continues to drain, Kelly said. The building is being cleaned and dried; the air quality is being tested; furniture and equipment is being safeguarded; damage and repair assessments are taking place. The third-floor is in the stages of removing and cleaning up ceiling materials; the main concentration on the firstand second-floors is moving specific contents to new locations.
Kelly said the demolition phase of the project is nearing its conclusion, and focus is turning towards reconstruction. Repairs to lower level and the first-floor may be more cosmetic. The second- and third-floors are going to require extensive repairs, she said.
At this time employees, besides essential employees determined by Department Heads, are not allowed into the building for work until further notice. Employees are asked to check with their Department Heads to determine if you are needed in this capacity. Employees will be paid for time off due to this emergency, the release said.
The Police Department will continue its operations, uninterrupted, at 5 Lake Ave.
Relocating City Hall functions are a priority. As soon as feasible, most City Hall tasks will continue at the City Recreation facility located at 15 Vanderbilt Ave. The Recreation facility is currently under development, with IT equipment and furniture being moved at this time. As essential equipment arrives, IT is focused on building workstations and staff will assist arranging them to promote workflow, communications and public service. Some departments may be placed in rental space as needs are assessed. Equipment deliveries are also schedule for this space. The exact date and time of these moves will be announced as soon as that information is available.
The city is operating in accordance with its City Emergency Management Plan, created in collaboration with the Risk and Safety Department, Police and Fire Departments, all other City departments, insurance and other experts in the field, and voted on by City Council.
“Police, Fire, Risk and Safety, Public Works, Information Technology, and every single city department is facing this challenge with courage, resourcefulness, collaboration, and hard work. I am pleased and proud of everyone’s efforts to work together, and thank you all for your cooperation,” said Kelly.