Town’s Energy Crew Assists in Hurricane Helene Relief Effort

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Town’s Department of Energy Services has risen to the challenge, aiding communities struggling to recover from the powerful storm. Last Saturday, a dedicated four-man crew, along with four support vehicles, was sent out to help municipally-owned utilities in neighboring towns. Their mission: to bring back electricity and stability to storm-stricken areas.

Department of Energy Services crew Joe Roberts, Alan Bell, Trever Griffith, and Cody Lohmann head south to help our neighbors.

The crew’s first stop was Bristol, Virginia, where power outages left residents in darkness and disrupted daily life. Since arriving, they’ve worked with local teams to repair electrical lines and restore services to homes and businesses. These efforts are essential to helping the community regain a sense of normalcy after the hurricane’s powerful winds and rain swept through.

Once the work in Bristol is complete, the crew will continue their journey to Clinton, South Carolina. The next stop will be especially critical, as Clinton has suffered more severe damage. Downed power lines, broken infrastructure, and widespread outages have left many without power for days, making the team’s assistance even more urgent.

The Department of Energy Services’ deployment is part of a tradition of mutual aid, where towns and cities come together during times of need. This spirit of cooperation is a key part of disaster response, allowing areas with resources to help those in greater need. It’s an arrangement that has helped countless communities over the years, including our own, during tough times.

“We’re really proud of our linemen,” said Department of Energy Services Director Carey Saffelle. “They’ve shown incredible courage and selflessness, leaving their families to help others during a difficult time. This kind of effort really demonstrates the best of our town and our people.”

Restoring power after a hurricane is no small task. It requires bravery, technical skill, and long hours of hard work, often in less-than-ideal conditions. For those affected by Hurricane Helene, the help from crews like ours brings hope and practical relief, allowing people to reconnect with loved ones, return to work, and rebuild their lives.

The impact of these efforts goes far beyond power lines. For the people in Bristol and Clinton, seeing the arrival of energy crews means progress. It means a light at the end of the tunnel, literally and figuratively. The restoration of electricity is a significant step toward recovery, enabling schools, hospitals, and businesses to reopen and helping communities regain a sense of normalcy.

The energy services team has demonstrated that helping hands are never far away when disaster strikes. From bringing back lights to rekindling hope, they remind us of the importance of community support. This mission showcases the true value of towns standing together through adversity.

We extend our gratitude to these linemen and support staff for their hard work. Their willingness to travel and lend their expertise is making a real difference, helping communities get back on their feet after Hurricane Helene. The entire town is proud to have them represent us.