Algonquin Building Commissioner Assists with Tornado Recovery in Washington

Submitted by the village of Algonquin

The Village of Algonquin lent a helping hand to the City of Washington, Ill., after it was faced with devastating damages due to a tornado that struck in November 2013. 

Craig Arps, Building Commissioner for the Village, traveled to central Illinois to provide relief and assistance in building inspections. Arps treated this opportunity as both a chance to lend support as well as a learning experience. 

“I was astounded at the level of damage caused by the tornado. I have seen countless TV news reports on communities that have been ravaged by storms,” said Arps. “However, you can’t comprehend the magnitude of the destruction until you see it firsthand.”

Observing the catastrophic aftermath that can result from a natural disaster helped to increase the Village’s awareness and ability to efficiently and effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from such an event.

During his time in Washington, Arps was able to assist in dozens of building inspections daily to relieve the municipality of the overwhelming workload. To date, Washington has issued 650 building permits in the impacted areas.  

These efforts benefitted not only a community in need but also helped to enhance the Village’s preparedness and resiliency in the event of an unforeseen or unpreventable natural disaster. 

The Village also participates in the Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System (ILEAS) and Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network (IPWMAN), which are mutual aid agreements between communities and agencies in Illinois.  

Algonquin provides resources when necessary to help neighboring communities and also receives the same resources in the event Algonquin needs additional assistance.