Athens Utilities has dispatched a six-member electric crew to Oxford, Mississippi, to assist with power restoration efforts following widespread outages caused by ice from Winter Storm Fern.
Electric Department Manager Hunter Allen said the crew packed equipment Sunday afternoon and departed later that evening to support utility crews working to restore service to thousands of customers left without power.
The crew includes Dustin Jackson, Will Thomas, Jeff Hines, Chayse Carter, Eli Gilbert and Brandon Pepper.
Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks thanked the utility workers for stepping up to assist another community in need.
“There have been times utility crews from other areas traveled here to help our community after tornadoes and ice storms, and it’s our turn to help,” Marks said.
As temperatures dropped sharply Sunday night, Athens Utilities, Public Works and Athens Police will continue monitoring local conditions, particularly in areas where wet roadways could freeze.
City of Athens offices will operate on a two-hour delay Monday, January 26, opening at 10 a.m. At this time, the Athens City Council meeting scheduled for 4 p.m. Monday has not been canceled, according to city officials.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed by following the City of Athens on Facebook and signing up for CivicReady alerts through the city’s website at www.athensal.us.
