Mayor James Della Volpe Tuesday praised the efforts of the city’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) which guided Ansonia’s response to Hurricane Irene. The EOC began its operations at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 27th and worked through the following day until 5 p.m.
The EOC began operations upon the signing of an Executive Order by Mayor Della Volpe on Saturday. Department heads involved in the response operations were:
- Police
- Fire
- Ansonia Rescue Medical Services (ARMS)
- Education
- Public Works
The Emergency Operations Center was located at the Ansonia Police Department and was led by Mayor Della Volpe and Police Chief Kevin Hale, who is the city’s Emergency Management Director.
A representative from United Illuminating joined the EOC throughout the day on Sunday to coordinate the local response to power outages in the city.
The Ansonia school system opened Ansonia High School as the main shelter for residents needing temporary living space. Another shelter for residents with pets was opened at Mead School. The shelters were each staffed by an emergency medical technician, firefighter, police officer and animal control officer (at Mead).
The EOC closely monitored all reports of power outages and wind and water damage. Upon receiving regular updates of the rising water elevation on the Naugatuck River, Mayor Della Volpe ordered the closing of the flood control gate at West Main Street. The closing was one of the first in the 40-plus history of the Ansonia Flood Control system.
Mayor Della Volpe today announced that residents who wish to dispose of storm related debris should put the materials at curbside starting Tuesday, Sept. 6. Public Works crews will pick up the debris regularly for a two week period ending Tuesday, Sept. 20.
The mayor praised the efforts of all involved in the Emergency Operations Center.
“We planned for the arrival of the storm well ahead of time, we were ready and we dealt with it,” he said in a statement. “Life and property were protected through a coordinated team effort. I want to thank all of the participants from each of the departments for keeping our city and its people safe.”
The mayor is now working with United Illuminating to help restore power as quickly as possible to all city residents.
