MOUNT VERNON — Numerous residents noticed the absence of the Knox County Web site (www.co.knox.oh.us) for a few days in late August. According to the Knox County Commissioners, who have oversight over the site, the trouble was caused by the violent thunderstorm that hit Mount Vernon on Aug. 19.

The Knox County Service Center, 117 E. High St., sits atop the hill marking the highest point in central Mount Vernon. This elevation makes it vulnerable to lightning, which tends to strike the tallest objects and areas. This lightning strike traveled through the wiring and ended inside the county’s computer equipment. The strike completely destroyed a part inside the computer.

“Our Web site was down for a few days because we had to get a replacement part shipped in to replace the one that got burnt up,” Commissioner Allen Stockberger said.

While the site was down, a number of residents called the News to inquire about the county’s site. Some of those callers also noted that the county Web site was not updated very often.

Stockberger said that this was, for the most part, intentional. He added that it is the board’s intention for the site to be there for contact information and access to certain functions, such a maps. It is not intended to be a bulletin board with constantly updated news.

“We encourage our different departments to submit basic information,” Stockberger said.

He said that if more time-sensitive material is posted, he hopes the departments will follow up with the county’s webmaster to update the material as needed.

Since the replacement part was installed, the site’s function has returned to normal, according to Stockberger.