Public Works adopts updated snow policy, advances streetscape and ordinance referrals

The Board of Public Works approved revisions to the Department of Public Works snow removal and ice control policy, effective Feb. 19, 2026, including provisions that allow Board of Education staff to manage snow removal at BOE facilities using DPW contract funds. Commissioners said publishing the policy on the city website and sharing it with BOE staff will clarify responsibilities.

During public comment a resident raised objections to proposed ordinance language that would treat pole/median strips adjacent to sidewalks as part of the sidewalk—potentially making homeowners responsible for snow removal in those narrow strips near bus stops and poles. Director Ray Robesinski explained the ordinance language traces to a 1965 definition that considers the entire area between curb and back of right-of-way part of the sidewalk; staff have forwarded technical revisions to the ordinance committee for public hearings and further refinement.

The board also advanced downtown infrastructure work requested by a developer (Carrier). Staff presented a contract change order to modify North Main Street streetscape improvements between the post office and police complex to add roughly 19 angled parking spaces; Carrier will fund surveying and engineering costs (estimated $20,000–$22,000) and the board recommended City Council authorize a $200,000 change order to the current streetscape contract.

Finally, public interest in the soon-to-be-vacant Engine 3 property prompted board authorization to create an RFP to market the building; staff noted an assessor's preliminary appraisal and stressed zoning compatibility for reuse. Board members encouraged a careful RFP process to attract compatible uses and to boost the tax base.