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Public Works details heavy winter operations, salt use and storage limits after 24 storm events
Summary
Public Works reported 24 storm events and heavy salt use so far this winter, described salt‑brine cost savings versus calcium, noted storage capacity limits and overtime impacts, and recommended a new salt storage tank in the CIP to reduce future supply risks.
Public Works Director Scott Holland updated the Auburn council on winter operations at the Feb. 2 regular meeting, reporting 24 storm events so far this season and describing operational pressures that emerged during a recent 17‑inch storm.
Holland said the department has used about 3,500 tons of salt and produced roughly 35,000 gallons of salt brine this season; salt‑brine production has saved the city substantial cost compared with purchasing calcium products. "Since [the brine unit was installed] we've produced 473,000 gallons," Holland said, estimating brine costs of about $71,000 versus an estimated $885,000 for calcium at current prices.
The winter response strained overtime budgets (70%–76% expended) and highlighted a storage capacity issue: the city’s salt shed capacity and delivery timing limit how much material can be held and applied in short order. Holland said the CIP includes a request to add a salt‑storage building and brine tank at a south‑end facility to shorten truck hauls and increase on‑hand supply.
Police Chief Jason Mullen and operations staff described field impacts and safety decisions made during the storm (including temporarily closing a steep hill because conditions were unsafe). Public Works and the police chief said crews worked around the clock to restore primary routes and sidewalks and that cleanup performance was generally effective despite extreme cold temperatures and packed snow.
The public‑works team said the city will continue data collection on waste and post‑storm efforts and will pursue storage and equipment investments to reduce future supply and response risks.
