Natural Gas Line Leak at HHS; System Shut Down

A leak in a natural gas line today near the art building at has caused officials to shut off natural gas for the whole school -- including the heating system -- according to a letter sent to parents by Principal Chris Vanden Heuvel.

Following is the text of the letter, sent today.

"While this situation may be inconvenient, and PG&E have assured us that this poses no safety concerns," Vanden Heuvel said. " This morning, we discovered a loss of pressure in our main gas line that was resulting in several heaters not functioning properly.

"PG&E was immediately informed and came on site to inspect the issue along with the Healdsburg Fire Department," he said. "A small leak was detected in the gas line near the Art Building.

"Natural gas to the entire campus was subsequently shut off," Vanden Heuvel said. "It was also quickly determined that there was no immediate danger to students or staff.

"A plumbing contractor will soon be excavating to expose the broken pipe and repair it," he added.  "Thus, we've moved all classes from the Art Building (Art, Ceramics, Photography and Digital Media) to other classrooms.

"The entire campus will be affected by the gas shutdown as no heaters or hot water will be available," he said."Furthermore, it isn't clear how long we will be without natural gas, so please prepare your students for the likelihood of a chilly morning in classrooms tomorrow."

Vanden Heuvel said he will keep parents informed of any changes in the situation.

"We are working hard to restore the gas pressure as soon as possible," he said. "Thank you for your patience and perseverance."