Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Operations topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Staff says early snowfall buried leaves; city will resume pickup in spring after trialing new blower equipment
Summary
Engineering and operations staff told the board that early snowfall buried leaves, limiting fall cleanup; crews plan to resume pickups in spring and staff reported positive results from a trial of a maneuverable tractor with a powerful blower that improved efficiency and reduced worker strain.
City operations staff told the Board of Public Works that early snowfall this year buried leaves and made late‑season pickup impractical in many areas. Staff said that attempting to remove frozen leaves would cause more damage than waiting and that the most likely plan is to resume collection in spring, around March–April, when turf and conditions are more favorable.
Staff described a recent trial of a maneuverable tractor fitted with a powerful blower that substantially increased efficiency compared with handheld blowers and broom attachments on skid steers. “It helped a lot. Like, it was really, really efficient... we can move a lot quicker,” a staff member said, describing reductions in staff walking distances and physical strain during leaf operations.
A board member proposed the city pursue a composting education program to encourage residents to mulch or compost leaves, reducing curbside volume and supporting operations; staff expressed support for exploring public education in coordination with Park & Rec.
Staff also reminded members of a tour of Badger Transit scheduled the next day. The meeting concluded with thanks and a brief follow‑up question about dollar totals for earlier agenda items.
