Politics & Government

Storm Damage Likely to Cost Village $200,000

Police Chief Phil Norton said after 26 years of working in Glen Ellyn this was the worst storm damage.

The July 1 storm that left thousands without power for days during excessive heat will cost the village thousands. 

“In the 26 years that I’ve worked here, I think it’s the worst damage I’ve ever seen," said Police Chief Phil Norton. 

The extensive damage of downed trees and snapped wires is creating a costly cleanup for the village and there's still work to be done, said Julius Hansen, public works director. Hansen estimates the damage will cost $200,000, which he says is just a preliminary figure.

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So far, 4,000 cubic yards of brush have been removed from roadways and more needs to be done. Hansen said there are still immense piles of brush in many of Glen Ellyn's parkways. The damage was so extensive after Sunday's storm that 42 wire issues were reported, 30 roadways were blocked that had to be cleared immediately, and police responded to 125 damaged areas. 

Village Manager Mark Franz said officials are hoping to cover some of the unexpected storm costs with funds from FEMA. The village will know later this week if it will qualify for the assistance.

Find out what's happening in Glen Ellynwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Norton said the overwhelming damage could be attributed to the drought-like conditions before the storm, which first damaged the root structure. In addition to the root issue, the leaves soaked up all the rainwater making the trees top-heavy and more likely to keel over with the onset of 90 mph winds. 

"What we saw were a number of trees uprooted or broken at the base," said Norton, dismissing the belief that rot caused many of the downed trees.

Officials are encouraging residents to contact the public works department (630-469-6756) if they see any hanging limbs, splits or cracks in trees. 

 

 


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