Public works director urges enforcement of county ordinance banning snow pushed into roadways; explains snow-plowing priorities

Brett, a county public-works representative, told commissioners on Jan. 7 that pushing private snow onto public roadways creates safety risks, accelerates pavement deterioration and damages plows.

Brett described the county's winter operations: crews concentrate on main routes and school-bus corridors first, aim to "get ahead of the school buses," and run rotating routes with limited staff hours. He said the county can typically run plow routes for roughly 16 hours per day with available staff and that breakdowns, equipment issues and mechanical failures sometimes delay service to lower-priority roads and subdivisions.

The presenter stressed the county ordinance that prohibits pushing private snow into the public right of way. He showed photos of snow pushed from driveways into travel lanes and explained two impacts: frozen piles that later form hazardous sections and accelerated pavement damage that can lead to potholes. He said the county issues letters and asks the sheriff's office to contact repeat offenders. He asked the public to put removed snow on private lawn areas rather than in the street, and to remember that subdivisions and side streets are lower priority than major routes.

Commissioners asked whether state or federal rules limit local authority. Brett and other staff explained the county follows the Open Meetings Act and state rules for snow emergencies when scheduling crews. A former mail carrier in the audience reminded residents that the federal postal service requires a drivable access to mailboxes.

Why it matters: Snow pushed into roadways creates safety hazards for vehicles and pedestrians, increases road repair costs and impairs the county's ability to keep school and emergency routes clear. County staff requested support for public outreach, enforcement by the sheriff's office and continued investment in snow-removal equipment.

What's next: Public Works said it will continue outreach and enforcement, issue warning letters to violators and coordinate with the sheriff on repeat problems. Commissioners asked staff to monitor workload and return if additional staffing or budget support is needed.