The switch went unnoticed, and that’s a good thing.

Monday was Kansas City Power & Light’s first day as the electric provider for St. Joseph.

KCP&L spokesman Mike Deggendorf woke up early Monday to make sure the company had ironed out all the wrinkles.

“I was up at 5:30 dialing the emergency numbers to test them,” Mr. Deggendorf said. “I used to be an Aquila customer and they worked fine for me.”

One of KCP&L’s first goals was to establish a local face for St. Joseph’s new electric company. North district manager Matt Dority will be responsible for the overall performance of all operations in the district, which includes St. Joseph.

Mr. Dority said he plans to move to St. Joseph as soon as possible so he can become a part of the community. He may not have a house yet, but he has a desk.

“I’m here now,” Mr. Dority said. “I’m in my office on Atchison Street. The new signs are up on the building and we’re getting the logos on our trucks and hard hats.”

In the near future, KCP&L plans to hire someone to focus on local economic development issues, specifically how the company can work to provide the needed services that prospective employers desire.

Former Aquila customers will not see the KCP&L name on their bill for at least 30 days and are urged not to discard any bills they receive that still contain the Aquila name.

To report a power outage, call (888) LIGHT-KC (544-4852). For service or billing questions, call (888) 471-KCPL (5275). Information is online at www.kcpl.com.

Business reporter Clinton Thomas can be reached at clintonthomas@npgco.com.