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Resident urges action on snowbanks and uncleared sidewalks; city cites staffing and prioritization
Summary
A Johnstown resident told the Common Council that excessive snowbanks and uncleared sidewalks are creating safety hazards. The mayor and Department of Public Works said crews prioritize main arteries and the business district and directed residents to contact the City Engineer’s Office for specific problem areas.
A Johnstown resident identified as Jacob of 14 South Chase Street told the Common Council on Jan. 20 that excessive snowbanks and uncleared sidewalks are creating safety hazards and making vehicle and pedestrian access difficult.
Mayor Amy Praught and a Department of Public Works representative responded that snowbank removal is prioritized on main arteries and the downtown business district because of limited staffing and equipment; residential streets are addressed when resources allow and often once per season. Residents were directed to contact the City Engineer’s Office about specific problem areas. The minutes note that property owners are responsible for sidewalk maintenance under City Code and that warning letters are issued prior to enforcement; city-owned properties are addressed immediately by City staff.
Council and staff commended DPW for winter operations despite salt shortages. No enforcement action or schedule was set in the meeting minutes beyond the existing prioritization practice and the notice that garbage ordinance enforcement will begin later in 2026 after public notification.
The minutes record Jacob’s three-minute public comment and the city response; they do not show an exchange of dialogue or a council directive to change current snow-removal priorities.
