Are we proactive or reactive?
The electricity is back on, homes are warm, and for most of us, last week's ice storm is but a dim memory.
It was interesting to see how cities and communities pulled together in a crisis.
The city of Peabody, which was without power into the weekend, took steps to make sure residents were safe. City workers and volunteers went door-to-door, alerting residents of the emergency situation and making sure they knew of available emergency shelters.
In Florence, the city council met in emergency session Jan. 4 to figure out a game plan to keep residents safe. A citywide shelter was opened at the senior center, and another opened at Junction Saloon.
In Hillsboro, emergency shelters were open at city hall, Hillsboro Community Medical Center, and Parkside Homes.
Each community acted swiftly to establish citywide shelters to insure the safety of residents. All three cities were in contact with the American Red Cross.
What happened to shelters in the city of Marion? While other cities were calling special meetings, going door-to-door to check on residents, and calling the Red Cross, what happened in Marion?
By Wednesday afternoon, Marion City Building and fire department were open for residents. Unfortunately, not many people knew this. Once again, Marion took a reactive stance while other cities were being proactive.
There's a lot to be said for being prepared. It might be time for the city to form an emergency plan, purchase a generator, designate emergency shelters, and let the public know.
Marion County is considering the purchase of a generator for the courthouse. In the event of another power outage, Marion County Courthouse could be used as an emergency shelter.
There's no question city crews did an excellent job removing tree limbs and working to restore power as quickly as possible. Every city worker deserves a pat on the back.
Countless acts of kindness and volunteerism were witnessed throughout the emergency. Carlsons' Grocery was open for the duration of the storm, operating with flashlights, candles, and calculators.
Marion Auto Supply also was open Wednesday, selling ice melt, de-icer, batteries, and wiper blades.
Mike's Service Center obtained a generator to power gas pumps so people could get gas and diesel fuel.
St. Luke Hospital provided drinks and pastries for city and county crews.
By the weekend, cleanup crews were visible on every street, picking up limbs and clearing debris. Neighbors helped neighbors and church groups pitched in to help clean yards for older folks.
Most don't remember an ice storm of this magnitude. Hopefully, we won't experience another. But, this is Kansas and weather conditions change quickly.
We'd all rest better if we knew the city was prepared for an emergency, ready to be proactive, not reactive.
— DONNA BERNHARDT
