Light Plant Takes $125,260 Equipment Hit from April Tornado

The April 27 tornado in Prowers County caused $125,260.33 in equipment damage for Lamar Light and Power.  The figures were presented by interim Light Plant Superintendent Houssin Hourieh during the May 29 meeting of the Lamar Utilities Board.  The City of Lamar’s insurance carrier, CIRSA has been given the cost of damages for reimbursement. 

The five wind turbines were given a satisfactory clean-bill-of-health by the Light Plant inspection crew during their semi-annual maintenance and inspection.  No major malfunctions were reported.   

Electricity sales dropped 1.26% for this past April and the number of customers has declined from the base by 114 accounts.  This change is reflected on all rate classes, compared to the same time period in 2011. 

The executive session to discuss contract negotiations with NMPP was not held.  The Light Plant reached an agreement with Nebraska Municipal Power Pool for a four year term for a total cost of $22,000.  The next Lamar Utilities Board meeting will be held June 12, 2012.

By Russ Baldwin