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Secondary roads supervisors discuss snow response, staffing, tree removal and options for roadside spraying
Summary
Winnebago County's secondary roads staff reviewed recent snow operations, staffing and hiring, tree-removal work at Bridal Lake, and options for roadside brush and weed control including in-house wet-blade spraying and targeted sprayer technology.
Winnebago County secondary roads staff reported on weekend snow operations, staffing and hiring, tree removal work at Bridal Lake, and options for roadside vegetation control during the supervisors' meeting.
Secondary roads reported maintainers and trucks worked through the weekend clearing roads; ditches are largely full, and crews have been managing windblown snow and localized buildups. Staff said blacktops are in good condition given wind and drifting, and there has been little overtime expense to date.
The roads supervisor said one vacancy remains in Lake Mills and interviews were scheduled; applicants were described as adequate for open positions. The board discussed comp time usage and past experiences of staff staying at shop locations during major storms to ensure response.
On tree work, staff said contractor Charlie had completed grinding and was progressing through the clubhouse and golf course areas at Bridal Lake, with residential trimming and selective removals coordinated with property owners. Board members emphasized talking with homeowners before removing major trees or features.
The board discussed roadside vegetation control options. Staff described a wet-blade cutter that sprays herbicide on cut stems and said two licensed employees could operate a sprayer for spot treatment. Members raised concerns about non-target spray drift and chemical use; staff said the wet-blade has produced complaints in the past for overspray. The board also discussed commercially available targeted sprayer technology (including a John Deere spot-sprayer and drone sprayers) but noted high equipment costs (one figure discussed: ~$80,000) and the need to distinguish desirable native plants from weeds.
Why it matters: Secondary roads operations affect public safety, road access and winter response across the county. Decisions about hiring, equipment and vegetation control affect operating budgets and environmental outcomes.
Next steps: Staff will pursue bids or quotes for roadside spraying options, continue tree removal and trimming with coordination with homeowners, and proceed with current recruitment for maintenance positions.
Sources: Secondary Roads supervisor remarks and board discussion recorded in the meeting transcript.
