YOUNGSTOWN – MG Electric is completing extensive electrical work at the future home of the Mahoning County Veterans Service Commission, which is relocating from the Oak Hill Renaissance building to a former grocery store on Belmont Avenue.
The $7 million project includes $650,000 from the state budget and places the commission across the street from the Carl Nunziato Veterans Affairs Clinic. Once finished, the facility will house offices, counseling and assistance spaces, and areas for community events.
“This was a complete gut job,” said Eric Krestel, foreman at MG Electric. “Everything used previously had to be taken out.”
The Boardman-based contractor began work in March. Crews have removed outdated wiring and rebuilt electrical systems to meet modern needs, including installing new distribution panels and supporting infrastructure for lighting, communications and critical systems.
“There was a lot of old stuff to chase down and tear out,” Krestel said. “It’s not always obvious where wiring goes, so you have to trace it, make sure it’s not active and safely remove it.”
Work has also included installation of a new fire alarm system. That portion was overseen by journeyman electrician Bob Mass, who noted that certification requirements for apprentices are expanding.
“Apprentices will need to be fire alarm certified and pass the test,” said Mass, who also taught code and motor controls at the Youngstown Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for 20 years. “There’s a fee to renew the certification every year, but having it draws in a lot of work.”
The new center is expected to open in fall 2025. MG Electric is a member contractor of NECA-IBEW Electricians, an association that includes IBEW Local 64 in Youngstown, IBEW Local 573 in Warren and signatory electrical contractors in the Mahoning Valley.
Pictured at top: Eric Krestel, foreman at MG Electric, checks on new distribution panels.