It’s time to buck up to top up the city’s snow removal, the mayor said yesterday.
Mayor Dave Bronconnier said he will ask for at least “a few extra million dollars” for the city’s snow removal budget next month during 2010 budget talks.
The mayor said he will push aldermen for the extra funding next month when council adjusts the 2010 budget, but acknowledged it will be tough while balancing the budget without running a deficit.
“I believe the time has come where we have to top up with a few extra million dollars into the program,” Bronconnier said, adding council will have to think of ways to find the money.
“Putting more equipment on the road of course comes with additional cost, but I think sometimes the cost is well worth the additional benefit even if it’s 10, 15, 20 minutes off your commute time.”
His comments come after the city’s first snowfall helped cause over 200 accidents yesterday, according to police.
Some drivers, like Nathan Hill, were frustrated by the city’s response, which saw 70 pieces of equipment out by 4 a.m.
“I didn’t see one sander or grader on my way to work, so I’m not sure when they are out there,” he said.
Bronconnier acknowledged the backup but said the city is doing the best they can with what they have. “I think the response was adequate for the material and personal we have. The bigger question is, is 78 pieces of equipment enough?” Bronconnier asked.
