Irene

Hurricane Irene appears to be strengthening and barreling up the Eastern Seaboard to the Northeast. The National Weather Service has issued severe storm warnings for late Saturday night through Sunday. We can expect high winds, heavy rains, downed trees and power lines, with possible interruption of critical utilities. I strongly urge all residents of the Town to prepare for Hurricane Irene by having potable water available, flashlights and batteries, and remove and loose debris or furniture from the outside of your residence. Make sure your pets are taken care of by having food and shelter. The Town's water system should not be affected as the new improvements of new storage tanks and emergency pumping system can supply water for 24 hrs without any electricity. Land Telephone lines may work better than cell phones depending on interrupted systems. The Department of Public Works will be on-duty as necessary for major flooding or inaccessible roads. We will evaluate the opening of Town Hall for shelter as the storm progresses. The Police Department telephone lines, 911 for emergencies and 479-2525 for general questions, will be open as will the DPW Garage (477-7296). Remember to be as careful as possible should there be any downed wires or debris. The residents of the Town of East Greenbush are the most important asset we have. Dave Van Wormer Commissioner of Public Works 466-5335Rich Benko Deputy Commissioner, Town Engineer 505-3987 National Grid Customers call 1-800-867-5222 to report a power outage at your home. For information on power outages, visit the following website http://www1.nationalgridus.com/niagaramohawk/stormcenter/