February 16, 2021
For immediate release
City announces additional adjustments to operations
As the City deals with this week’s weather crisis, additional modifications to operations are necessary.
In an effort to conserve energy and lessen the strain on the area power grid, Evergy has requested the City of Independence operate City Hall on alternative power. The building has been running on emergency generator power since Monday, and not all areas of the building have service. For this reason, City Hall will remain closed to the public Wednesday, February 17, with the exception of Municipal Court. The main entrance on Laurel Street will open for court participants at 1:15 p.m., and Municipal Court will begin promptly at 1:30 p.m.
Residential trash pickup service will resume Wednesday. However, due to the anticipated volume of trash, complicated by cold temperatures and snow buildup, residents should expect delayed pickup times.
The City is also dealing with sporadic water leaks throughout town, and crews are working to repair these as efficiently as possible in the extreme weather conditions. If your neighborhood is affected, your patience is appreciated. To report issues with your water service, please call 620-332-2515.
Street crews are concentrating their efforts on main thoroughfares and emergency routes. Due to water/sewer crews addressing various water leaks, the clean-up of downtown streets and parking areas is scheduled to resume tomorrow.
Finally, the special Independence City Commission meeting originally scheduled for Wednesday morning has been canceled and will be rescheduled for a later date.
Please visit the City’s Facebook page, @IndependenceKS, and website, www.independenceks.gov, for additional updates as the weather situation develops.