Greenville city leaders say the cost of stolen storm grates and manhole covers is still adding up.
More have been taken since the last batch nearly 3 weeks ago," says Wayne Owens with the Public Works Department.
"We've depleted our stock," he said.
One stolen overnight Wednesday took an crew of 4 more than 4 hours to cover up.
"The replacement and man hours are hitting us in the pocketbook."
City police continue to say they're working with local scrap yards, to look out for thieves trading in the metal for money.
In the meantime, Owens says there have been several close calls with safety.
"I did have one person tell me they found it by literally almost walking off into the thing," Owens said. "So, it's a hazard."
Since the cost of metal has gone up, the cost of replacing the covers has also gone up in recent weeks: from $100 to $150 for each one. "We have to buy these in quantity so I'm satisfied the city spent several thousand just resupplying our stock."
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