Our country is experiencing more frequent natural disaster weather-related events, and the Mount Airy region is no exception. It is on that point that I submit the following for residents to consider. I am proposing the procurement, installation and operation of an air siren alert system for the four corners region of Mount Airy. I have spent the last couple of days eliciting supporting statements from the town residents and businesses that anchor and draw customers into our town. I have written the CEOs of three anchors in the three shopping centers in our town asking for support letters for this initiative.
In November 2018, an EF-1 tornado, confirmed by the National Weather Service, caused significant damage in Mount Airy, particularly impacting the Twin Arch Shopping Center. The tornado, which initially touched down in northwest Howard County, moved north into Carroll County, affecting areas around Pheasant Ridge before reaching Mount Airy. This event impacted businesses and residents in this region, which suffered structural damage and loss of power. Thankfully, no one was hurt significantly or killed. We may not be so lucky next time.
Emergency responders, including the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and the fire department, were involved in rescue and damage assessment efforts. The Red Cross provided assistance to those displaced by the storm and public safety personnel worked to clear roads and assess damage.
The scope of damage involved three of the four counties that night. We are the “four corners” of these counties (which is painted on the Water Tower in Town Center). An air siren mounted on the highest tower of our three water towers would be cost-effective and give significant warning to this region.
Protect this town and surrounding jurisdictions’ residents’ health, safety and welfare.
Email me at Hunter1061@yahoo.com if you agree and support this proposition. Thank you for considering this much-needed grant-funded device for this region.
— Joshua Marks, Mount Airy
Add your voice: Respond to this piece or other Carroll County Times content by submitting your own letter.
