Quesnel has already spent more than $1 million on snow removal in 2018.
The majority of spending was done early in the year, as heavy snowfall kept snow removal services extremely busy for much of January and February 2018.
READ MORE: “All roads will be plowed within 48 hours”: plows are making their way around Quesnel
In today’s (Nov. 21) City Council News column, Mayor Bob Simpson reveals the 2018 budget for snow removal has already been blown.
“We have already surpassed $1 million and will be tapping into our nominal snow reserve to cover any additional costs for snow removal in 2018,” he wrote.
Council had allocated six per cent of its general operating budget to snow removal for 2018.
“Council believes these costs are warranted in order to ensure we can make our roads and sidewalks as safe as possible during the winter months,” said Simpson in the article.
Simpson continued that regular freeze and thaw, as temperatures fluxuate throughout the winter, as well as the large dumps of snow have been challenging for the City’s crews.
“The City of Quesnel has very high standards for snow removal and I believe our crews do an excellent job of clearing and sanding our roads in a timely manner. We also provide an end of driveway clearing service when we get larger snow events,” he said.
He indicated that this winter, locals may need to avoid travelling the roads until crews have a chance to do their jobs.
The City of Quesnel has its own snow removal crews, while Emcon Services plows the surrounding area and highways, via a contract with the Province and the Cariboo Regional District.
Snow is currently forecasted for Friday Nov. 23, according to Environment Canada.
editor@quesnelobserver.com
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