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One popular current national commercial asks us to "expect the unexpected." Another urges us to protect ourselves from "mayhem."
Well, what happened at Elkins City Hall last weekend was definitely unexpected. And we feel sure most people would classify the results as "mayhem."
Officials announced Sunday, one day prior to Labor Day Monday, that City Hall would be closed Tuesday due to the discovery of "a large-scale sewage backup that has caused significant damage in multiple workspaces and public areas."
On Tuesday, officials announced that City Hall would remain closed until further notice.
Mayor Jerry Marco told The Inter-Mountain Tuesday that the closure could possibly last beyond this week.
"There were several factors that went into what happened, and unfortunately it flooded the entire first floor and basement area," Marco said. "That's what we are dealing with right now and we just have to make sure the building can be safely occupied. The safety of our employees and our citizens is our top priority right now."
Officials announced that all City Hall departments will be working remotely during the closure and are available by phone and email, although responses may be delayed.
Thursday's Elkins City Council meeting was moved to the Phil Gainer Community Center due to City Hall's closure.
On Thursday morning, Marco signed a proclamation outdoors in front of a local church because City Hall could not be used.
Utility shut-offs for the City of Elkins were canceled for the month of September. Residents who need help with water issues or utility services were asked to please contact the Water Department at 681-298-5200.
Utility payments can be made at the drop-off box in the parking lot of City Hall or by paying online at www.cityofelkinswv.com/online-payments.
Marco said safety testing would be done at City Hall Thursday, and added that officials are in the process of evaluating if any records or other important documents were damaged in the flooded areas.
Marco acknowledged the frustration caused by the situation.
"We are trying to be as transparent as possible right now. There are just a lot of unknowns at the moment," he said.
Here's hoping the cleaning and testing can be completed and City Hall employees can return to work inside the facility soon.
We also hope the factors that led to the sewage break can be identified, dealt with and corrected, so this type of "mayhem" never happens again.