The Wabash County Senior Center was opened as a storm shelter last night as severe weather moved through the area.
During Monday afternoon’s Mount Carmel City Council meeting, Mayor Joe Judge thanked city employees who stepped in to staff the shelter, noting many worked additional hours beyond their regular shifts.
Judge said the city no longer relies on volunteers to operate the shelter, and he expressed appreciation for those willing to come in and help during severe weather events.
The mayor also addressed questions about the facility’s policy on animals. He said pets are allowed, but must be kept in kennels due to health regulations, as the senior center also operates as a restaurant and must be ready for service the following day.
Judge added the policy also considers the safety and comfort of all individuals using the shelter, noting some people may be uncomfortable around animals.
He emphasized the senior center is not a full-scale storm shelter, but rather the basement is used as a temporary safe location during severe weather situations.