NOWATA, Okla. — A public works building in Nowata is a total loss after an overnight fire on Jan. 14.
The fire started sometime after 1 a.m., and by about 2:15 a.m,. the main part of the building was completely burned, according to City Manager Melanie Ward.
“All of the water distribution, all of the sewer distribution, parks, maintenance, streets, all of that is housed in this building," said Ward. “We’re a poor community. We’re one of the poorer ones in the state and this meant a lot to us."
Ward arrived on scene about 2 a.m., with flames still raging through the building.
In the hours that followed, the city manager has been trying to find a way forward. Most of the equipment inside - city trucks, excavators, mowers - were new, just purchased in the last few years.
"This equipment that these guys had, and these vehicles… this was bought with ARPA money," she said. "As everybody knows we don’t have ARPA money anymore. I don’t know how I’m going to replace this stuff.”
In the hours that followed, in true Oklahoma fashion, surrounding communities like Coffeyville and the Cherokee Nation offered their services and to cover calls for service while they find a way forward.
“We’re blessed, we’re grateful and we’re appreciative," said Ward. "We’ll try to return the favor if we ever can."
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but the fire chief believes it looks to be electrical.
The building had about 10 full-time employees. Ward said they won't lose their jobs and she's considering administrative leave for them as they navigate this tragic loss.
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