Disaster restoration crews are cleaning up at the municipal Civic Centre in Chatham after heavy rainfall over the weekend caused significant water damage to the interior of the building.
The Municipality of Chatham-Kent said a faulty roof drain has resulted in damage to carpets, ceiling tiles, computers, office equipment, and furniture on the first and second floors of the King Street West building. Most of the items have been damaged beyond repair.
“It’s no secret that the civic centre has been in dire need of repair or replacement for some time. This is an aging building and this recent event is yet another example of the need to find a long-term sustainable solution that benefits both the community and municipal staff,” said Mayor Darrin Canniff in a news release. “In the interim, administration is doing everything they can to get things cleaned up and ensure both the safety of the public and their continued access to our services.”
Disaster restoration services have been on site since Monday and will remain at the Civic Centre the areas are suitable for operation.
All staff in the affected areas have also been relocated to remote sites, with the exception of customer service and fire services.
Residents are asked to avoid visiting the Civic Centre if possible at this time and to conduct any business by phone or online.
The CK Council meeting scheduled for July 10 is expected to proceed in person at council chambers, however, the municipality said that could change in the coming days.
