Owatonna Public Utilities (OPU) line workers Tony Hartle, Lance Diderrich, and Samuel Bahl joined a fleet of line workers from other Minnesota Municipal Utilities traveling to Kissimmee, Florida, to provide mutual aid in the wake of destruction from Hurricane Ian.

Photo Credit to Jared Hendricks of OPU. Left to Right is Lance Diderrich, Samuel Bahl, Tony Hartle.
Photo Credit to Jared Hendricks of OPU. Left to Right is Lance Diderrich, Samuel Bahl, and Tony Hartle.
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OPU stated in a press release that they are joined by line crews from the communities of: Alexandria, Anoka, Austin, Brainerd, Buffalo, Elk River, Luverne, Marshall, Moorhead, New Ulm, Rochester, Shakopee, and Wilmar. In addition to the line crews, OPU also stated “a vehicle mechanic crew, as well as safety and support staff, are part of the convoy traveling to Kissimmee, Florida. Minnesota Municipal Utility Association (MMUA) is coordinating and leading the mutual aid efforts for the Minnesota Municipal Utilities that have responded to the request for assistance.”

Photo Credit to Jared Hendricks of OPU. OPU pickup is being driven by Hartle with Diderrich as the passenger.
Photo Credit to Jared Hendricks of OPU. OPU pickup is being driven by Hartle with Diderrich as the passenger.
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A total of 23 vehicles departed from Rochester Public Utilities at approximately 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 28th, reported by Owatonna Public Utilities. In the press release that recently came out, it is explained that

mutual aid efforts are of vital importance following devastating storms and natural disasters. Additional crews and equipment pouring into disaster areas assist in rebuilding electric infrastructure and restoring power to keep the public safe and reduce the loss of life. Utilities from at least 32 states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Michigan, Illinois Indiana, Ohio, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri have activated mutual aid assistance.

Photo credit to Jared Hendricks of OPU. OPU bucket truck is being driven by Bahl.
Photo credit to Jared Hendricks of OPU. OPU bucket truck is being driven by Bahl.
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It is these people who will help and work on restoring power to the millions of people currently without electricity in Florida.

All information is credited to Owatonna Public Utilities and their recent press release. OPU is a municipally-owned utility providing electric, water, and natural gas services in Owatonna, Minnesota. More information is available at www.owatonnautilities.com.

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