8.1. SR 01-06-1997I?EI~ 8.1.
qty of
MEMORANDUM
iver
FROM:
Patrick Klaers, City Administrator
Phil Hals, Street/Park Supt.~_ ~
DATE:
December 31, 1996
SUBJECT: Review of Snow Plowing Procedure
during Heavy Snowfalls
Even though a storm like the one of December 15, 1996, may only happen
once a year, the lessons we learned brought forward two major issues that
need to be addressed. The first is to have units working during the storm on
priority routes and to be available for ambulance, fire or police emergencies.
The second issue is the 10 to 12 hour delay some people face because they are
on the end of plow routes. Pat Klaers and I have discussed many different
scenarios and will be prepared to discuss options with the Council on
January 6, 1997.
The addition of the mechanic position will give us one more person to draw
from, and I do feel it is important to have the regular drivers rested and
ready to plow near the end of the storm. The most likely scenario will be to
have the new mechanic and I plow during the night to keep priority routes
open until the full crew comes on line. This is cost effective and realistic.
The issue of plowing in other jurisdictions needs to be addressed if City plows
are to lead the ambulance or fire trucks into Otsego, Hassen, Big Lake Twsp.
or Ramsey. Also, the issue of plowing private driveways in the case of an
ambulance call should also be considered.
I would like to explore options of contract plowers to assist both with the
"during storm" plowing as well as the 10 to 12 hour delay experienced by
people on the end of plow routes.
I would suggest a cautious approach to either of these issues so that we can
totally evaluate costs versus services offered and not let one heavy snowfall
set our procedures.
kkelkriverksyskshrdockcouncil\snwplgph.doc
13065 Orono Parkway · P.O. Box 490 · Elk River, MN 55330 · (612) 441-7420 · Fax: (612) 441-7425