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DPW warns of spring frost-heave damage, road postings and overtime pressure
Summary
The department of public works told the board it will post roads to 6‑ton weight limits as warming begins, cited frost-heave damage on Womack Road and said overtime and salt procurement remain challenges; the board discussed moving plowing to weekdays to reduce overtime costs.
The town’s public works update focused on spring road damage, weight‑limit postings and staffing costs.
DPW staff reported frost‑heave damage along Womack Road and said they expect to post roads with 6‑ton weight limits when temperatures rise to protect pavement vulnerable to heavy vehicles. Staff warned that loggers frequently contact the town in spring seeking access and that postings often must be enacted quickly when ground thaw patterns change.
The department said overtime has been heavy this winter, and managers estimated they have used roughly 80% of the overtime budget for the season; they recommended shifting some plow work to weekdays where possible to curb weekend overtime. The town also said it has secured a salt supplier despite broader shortages, easing short‑term supply concerns.
Board members asked staff to notify residents where postings will occur and to consider operational changes to reduce overtime and improve communication with affected residents.
