The Licking County Commission approved an emergency authorization on August 21 to replace the Reynolds Road communications hut. The decision was made due to a leaking roof that posed a threat to radio equipment housed within the structure.
According to the meeting agenda, the Licking County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is responsible for maintaining communications equipment and infrastructure across the county. This infrastructure supports its Emergency Operations Center, which coordinates response and recovery efforts with various agencies. The Reynolds Road hut, located on a cell tower near Utica, contains essential radio and supporting equipment such as a generator transfer switch and panel, power receptacles, and a lighting circuit. These components require protection from moisture and heat to function properly.
The agenda indicated that water leakage through the roof above the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and transfer switch had caused damage to both the equipment and the base of the hut. EMA personnel were unable to resolve this issue, which could lead to further structural damage if not addressed promptly.
The Licking County Board of Commissioners declared an emergency because only one company responded to EMA's request for assistance in replacing the communications hut. The commissioners have authority in emergencies where costs are under $125,000 or when there is an actual physical disaster affecting structures or equipment.
Salyers Electric agreed to undertake the project by removing existing radio and power equipment, dismantling the current hut, constructing a new building, and reinstalling all necessary equipment. The estimated cost for this project was $18,305.
Commissioner Duane Flowers proposed awarding the contract to Salyers Electric, which received unanimous approval from the board.
