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Selectboard weighs sand/salt mix after regional salt deliveries stall
Summary
Highway staff reported a disruption in railcar salt deliveries; Barrett Cargo reportedly has no salt. The board agreed to investigate buying local sand and mixing 50/50 with existing salt to stretch supplies for paved and back roads while exploring state assistance.
Town highway staff told the selectboard that a regional salt supply disruption is limiting deliveries and that Barrett Cargo had no salt available; a board member said railcar deliveries were delayed by “at least 2 to 3 weeks.” The highway foreman proposed buying local sand (seven cubic yards at a time) and mixing it with the town’s remaining salt to extend the current stock, primarily for back roads. The board agreed by consensus to pursue purchases and mixing strategies.
Members and staff also discussed equipment issues that affect winter operations, including a backhoe vibration concern attributed to aggressive tires and the potential replacement of tires by the vendor. One selectboard member emphasized operational limits and the need to prioritize paved roads first for the remaining salt. The board asked the highway foreman to check vendor availability and report back.
