 The issues with the city's sirens first came up when aldermen
were working to build the budget for the new fiscal year.At that
time Alderwoman Marty Neitzel and Alderman Jeff Hoinacki had shared
concerns from their constituents in Ward 5 that sirens cannot be
heard in all parts of the city. It was discussed then whether or not
a new siren needed to be installed, and the decision was that it did
not.
When the topic came up on Tuesday evening, the first one to speak
was Alderwoman Melody Anderson, who said she was confused because
she thought the issue had been settled.
Miller said it had, but in looking at the placement of sirens
throughout the city, he thought there might be a way to make
residents in the Heritage and Lincolnwood areas more comfortable
with the situation.
He said first, he had personally gone to the north edges of town
at the last siren test and had verified the sirens can be heard when
outside.
But, he had also put together a map of the city, showing the
placement of the sirens and the range they are supposed to have
according to manufacturer specifications. He said the map indicates
there is a gap in coverage that could be closed if the siren
currently located on Ophir Avenue were moved three to four blocks to
the north.
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Miller said this would improve the coverage of the city, but
would still not guarantee that sirens could be heard by people
inside their homes.
He also reminded everyone that the storm sirens are not intended
to be heard inside a home. He said folks with concerns should
purchase weather radios, or at the least, when the skies look
ominous, turn on their televisions and radios and listen for alerts.
Miller said that he had not yet researched the cost of relocating
a siren, but it would have to be less expensive than buying a new
one, which would run approximately $15,000.
[By NILA SMITH]
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