The city of Osawatomie is dealing with major power issues that are being described as a “worst case scenario”. The power went out Tuesday night, October 24th, about 10:00, and remains out for a majority of customers in the city. A major failure of equipment at the power plant substation has left the city scrambling to supply power. In an attempt to restore power, another catastrophic failure of the breakers occurred yesterday, October 25th. The major breaker they need, is enroute from Beloit, and a new transformer that fits the needs of the city was found in Garden City. Garden City is willing to sell the transformer to Osawatomie; however, it is huge. It is being transported to the city this morning and once on scene, it will take electric crews a full day, up to 18 hours to install it.
As a result of the power outage, Osawatomie schools will not be in session today. City Hall will be closed, the Public Works Department and electric workshop have no phone or internet, and the water treatment plant is closed. The city auditorium is open for those who need services. There are cots, food and personnel from several different departments available. Also, the Miami County Sheriff’s Office in Paola has opened it’s community room as a place to relax and charge electronics. Water, restrooms and cable television are also available. If you are in need of urgent assistance, reach out to the Osawatomie Police Department, Fire Department, or the Miami County Sheriff’s Office.
