County crews enhance snow removal efforts during winter storm

Concerns over snow removal and public safety took center stage at the Keith County Board of Commissioners meeting on February 19, 2025. An elderly resident's struggle to navigate a snow-covered hill while carrying groceries sparked a discussion about the effectiveness of current snow removal efforts in the area.

Commissioners acknowledged the challenges posed by recent heavy snowfall, with one member expressing concern for the safety of residents like the elderly woman. "She would have slipped and fallen, and that wouldn't have been pretty," the commissioner remarked, emphasizing the need for improved accessibility during winter weather.

County officials reported that snow removal on major roads, such as Berry and Lemoyne Roads, has been effective, with crews deployed multiple times during the week. However, they clarified that during active snowfall, their strategy focuses on maintaining roads for safe passage rather than achieving completely clear surfaces. "When it's actively snowing, we just try to keep the pavement and corners clean," one official explained, noting that full snow removal efforts commence only after the storm subsides.

The meeting also touched on the county's emergency services, with the EMS chief disclosing a potential conflict of interest regarding his private business's involvement in outfitting emergency vehicles for the county. He assured the board that this would be formally addressed in future meetings, maintaining transparency in county operations.

As the meeting concluded, officials reiterated their commitment to public safety and efficient snow removal, promising to continue monitoring conditions and addressing community concerns. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges of winter weather management and the importance of keeping residents safe during harsh conditions.