Throughout the event the City made use of its emergency notification system, Nixle. Area residents receive text messages by texting your zip code to 888-777; or register online at www.nixle.com. Residents that need assistance to register should go to the Ottawa Police Department.
Both the City and LaSalle County have declared a disaster and signed disaster declarations which have been submitted to Illinois Emergency Manager Agency (IEMA).
Mutual aid networks for police, fire and public works have been activated.
The City water and wastewater systems are functioning.
The primary area of damage is Ottawa’s south side, generally east of Route 23 nearest the river. Access to that area is restricted to residents and registered contractors only. Residents will be required to show identification to access the area.
All contractors and insurance adjusters are required to register at the Ottawa Police Department to receive a badge that will allow them access to the affected areas.
RESIDENTS: For safety concerns, do not clear trees in the public right-of-way or in areas around downed power lines. Contractors will be in the area to safely remove trees from streets.
After the power lines and trees are cleared from the street, dumpsters will be placed throughout the affected areas for use by the residents.
The Starved Rock Country Community Foundation is accepting cash donations to assist with disaster relief from the February 28, 2017 tornado and related storms. Please visit their website at http://srccf.org/donate/disaster-relief-fund/ . They can also call 815-252-2906.