Hoffman Estates, Palatine receive emergency generators

The villages of Hoffman Estates and Palatine recently took delivery of six emergency electrical generators, each purchased by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and distributed by the Illinois Terrorism Task Force.

The delivery in Hoffman Estates took place on a cold and windy day, indicative of the weather conditions that may necessitate their use.

The Illinois Terrorism Task Force and the Illinois Emergency Services Management Association acquired and distributed $2 million worth of generators to 10 locations statewide.

An independent panel reviewed agency applications and determined that Hoffman Estates was a good candidate. Selection criteria included a viable emergency management program, secure storage, technical capability and proximity to geographic and demographic needs.

“Hoffman Estates received one 30-kilowatt and five 60-kilowatt continuous-duty generators,” said village Emergency Management Agency Coordinator David Christensen. “Each generator is equipped with solar panels and redundant starting capability to ensure operation at all times.”

The generators are housed in various public works facilities and personnel will receive training on their operation and maintenance.

Palatine initially balked at accepting its award of generators, as village officials expressed concern that the long-term liability for keeping the generators operational would be too big a burden.

After further discussion with officials over what it would be required to do, the village agreed to accept them.

Recipients agreed to make the generators available to surrounding communities should a disaster or emergency occur in their jurisdictions. Other local awardees include the city of Aurora and Lake County.

Emergency electrical power is among the top three needs in a disaster. It also can be the most difficult to acquire.

It’s anticipated the generators can ensure water, sewage and emergency pumps continue to operate, and that there’s power for emergency operations such as command posts, clinics and shelters.

“We are extremely pleased to have been selected to receive these assets,” Christensen said. “Hoffman Estates is now in a better position to sustain emergency power at our critical facilities and infrastructure.”