Grays Harbor PUD receives an award from the American Public Power Association

Aberdeen, WA – The Grays Harbor PUD received a national award from the American Public Power Association for its assistance in restoration efforts in Clark County after the President’s weekend ice storm.

“An integral part of the utility business is the respect we all show our highly specialized line workers,” said Lena Wittler, CEO / General Manager of Clark Public Utilities. “In emergencies, mutual help can mean the difference between hours, days or even weeks of rest as our crews work around the clock to restore power. We thank Grays Harbor PUD for their support. “

According to the PUD, after nearly two days of restoring power to nearly 10,000 PUD customers in Grays Harbor who were hit by freezing rain, snow, and ice, two Grays Harbor volunteer crews moved to the area north of Vancouver at the request of mutual assistance , Washington, posted by Clark Public Utilities.

For two days, the Grays Harbor crews assisted the Clark crews with restoration work related to the same storm that cut off electricity to 50,000 customers.

“You were great! Excellent attitudes, helpful and hardworking. I would put you at the top of the list for future mutual assistance,” said Gene Morris, director of operations at Clark Public Utilities.

“This is a great example of the dedication, skills and professionalism of our crews,” said Schuyler Burkhart, PUD general manager of Grays Harbor PUD. “After working here in the cold, snow and freezing rain, they answered a call for help from a neighboring utility company. That shows a commitment to service. I’m so proud of the way our crews have responded and the reputation they have built in our region and across the industry. “