Ashland, Oregon- In the wake of severe winter weather wreaking havoc on Springfield’s electrical infrastructure, the City of Springfield has sought assistance from neighboring municipalities. On Sunday, January 14, 2024, an urgent appeal for aid was made, prompting action from other municipalities in Oregon.
Responding to the call, a 4-person crew from Ashland took the initiative to support Springfield’s recovery efforts. Equipped with essential tools and equipment, the Ashland team embarked on their mission early Monday morning, fully committed to restoring crucial services for Springfield’s residents.
Thomas McBartlett, Director of the City of Ashland Electric Department, expressed his swift response to the call for aid. “When I received the email from the General Manager at Springfield Utility Board, I quickly pulled a crew together. Our team has been working long hours, in tough conditions,” McBartlett stated. “I’m pleased that we are able to offer mutual aid to other cities in need.”
The Ashland team is expected to remain in Springfield throughout the week, with the possibility of extending their stay into the following week. The collaborative effort gained momentum on Thursday, January 18, as the cities of Forest Grove and McMinnville also dispatched mutual aid, underscoring the solidarity among Oregon’s municipalities during challenging times.
As these crews work to address the aftermath of the extreme winter weather, the collective response exemplifies the spirit of community support and resilience in the face of adversity. The mutual aid provided by Ashland, Forest Grove, and McMinnville demonstrates the strength of local partnerships and the shared commitment to ensuring the well-being of all citizens affected by the recent weather-related challenges in Springfield.
Source: City of Ashland
