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Calaveras supervisors adopt snow-response plan, direct RFP for on-call removal after intense February storms
Summary
After reviewing the Feb. 16–23 storm that dropped heavy snow in higher elevations and created extensive downed-tree and power-line damage, the board adopted a new internal snow-response plan, directed staff to issue an RFP for on-call snow-removal services, and asked staff to seek funding options for equipment and GPS tracking.
Following a winter storm that left deep snow in the high country and produced more than 300 downed trees and 157 power-line conflicts, Calaveras County Public Works presented an internal snow-response plan and asked the Board of Supervisors for direction on procurement options and an on-call contract model.
Public Works Director Michael Martin and Road Superintendent Scott Anderson described the February event as unusually severe — one site recorded 95 inches of snow — which led to more than 7,000 cubic yards of chipped debris taken to the Rock Creek landfill and more than 3,000 staff hours logged by county crews. The department said coordination with utility companies, a centralized snow dispatch, radio upgrades and an updated staffing plan were among measures already implemented.
The proposed plan also lays out technical options: GPS fleet tracking (annual costs estimated $28,000–$60,000), temporary equipment rental ($8,000–$25,000 per month per unit), and purchase options (per-unit costs ranging roughly $90,000–$750,000 depending on type and condition). Officials recommended drafting an RFP for on-call snow-removal contractors to improve responsiveness in remote mountain areas.
Why it matters: Supervisors said reliable winter response is essential to protect residents, maintain tourism and support local businesses. Several supervisors urged the county to pursue both local contractor agreements and equipment options while acknowledging funding constraints.
Board action and follow-up: The board approved the snow-response plan as a living document, directed staff to draft and advertise an RFP for on-call snow removal, and asked staff to explore funding sources for equipment purchases or rentals and for GPS/public tracking capability so residents can see plow progress. The vote was unanimous (5-0).
Public reaction: Multiple residents and business owners from high-country communities described being snowbound and urged faster, better-coordinated clearance. One distillery owner said visitor perceptions of being “stuck” after storms could harm the tourism economy unless response improves.
Next steps: Public Works will finalize the internal plan, post it publicly, prepare an RFP scope for on-call services, and return with procurement and funding options.
