The Princeton City Council received updates from various departments and committees regarding the damage caused by Friday night’s severe storms, as well as plans for the removal of downed trees and limbs.
The National Weather Service Storm Survey Team determined on Monday that straight-line winds of up to 93 mph caused the damage in downtown Princeton on Friday night. Caldwell County Emergency Management Director Joey McCaslin reported that storms downed numerous trees and power lines, with trees falling on two homes and the roof ripped off of Perry’s Floor & More on West Market Street.
During Monday night’s meeting, Public Works Superintendent Chris Pool reported that while most of the debris has been cleared, some downed trees remain in Cedar Hill Cemetery.
click to download audioHe mentioned they are currently in the process of soliciting bids for tree removal at the cemetery and hopes to receive public assistance for reimbursement.
Mayor Brock Thomas requested time for the Council to discuss expediting the removal of certain trees in the cemetery to enhance safety.
click to download audioCouncilman Carl Copeland agreed.
click to download audioIn response to inquiries about limb pickup, Mayor Thomas stated that the City will follow their usual procedures and encouraged residents to place limbs at the curb for collection.
click to download audioHe added that residents would have a couple of weeks to get the debris to the road before it’s picked up.
Princeton Fire Department Chief Brent Francis said another option is that residents may burn small piles of limbs, as there are currently no time restrictions for burning.
click to download audioCouncilwoman Pat George, a member of the Princeton Water & Wastewater Commission, reported that Superintendent James Noel confirmed Monday morning that there was no storm damage to their facilities. Additionally, she reported that Princeton Water & Wastewater crews provided assistance to the Princeton Electric Plant Board crews after the storms.
Councilman Jim Joiner, a member of the Princeton Electric Plant Board, reported that utility crews began repairing outages across town at 10:00 Friday night.
click to download audioDuring unfinished business, the Council unanimously approved the second reading of a budget amendment to the General Fund, allocating $50,000 for grant projects at the City-County Park and additional part-time code enforcement wages.
During new business, the Council unanimously approved advertising for bids for fiscal year 2026 paving projects, and Mayor Thomas presented a National Public Works Proclamation from May 18-24.
