Greater Covington Center receives water damaage

Covington’s City Hall at the Greater Covington Center building was damaged as a result of the squall-like storms that came through the area Wednesday night.

City workers were busy lighting offices and removing soaked carpets as office workers covered desk tops, computers and file boxes with tarpaulins as the rain threat continued Thursday.

Several of the city’s files are on computer already, and maps and planning paraphernalia were moved and covered to protect them from the elements.

The water came from the roof on the single-story section of the building where the roof is almost flat. The water line on the wall is about 6 inches off the ground, and the water spread along the floor throughout the building, according to Covington Mayor Candace Watkins.

In addition, South Jefferson Avenue flooded last night, and the water line was halfway to the door. Employees waded to get to the building Thursday morning, said Catherine Brown, the mayor’s assistant.

On Thursday afternoon, dehumidifiers and dryers were brought in to assist in the cleanup process.

On a temporary basis, affected city offices may be moved back to the old City Hall building on North Columbia Street while repairs are made to the first floor of the Greater Covington Center.

A time line for the move had not been confirmed Thursday afternoon.

Watkins said persons owing city utility bills — water, sewer and garbage pickup — will not be penalized due to the weather. Delinquent penalties will not be charged and utilities will not be cut off.