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Council debates suspending snow‑removal fines after ‘snowcrete’ storm; motion withdrawn
Summary
After a severe January storm described as dense “snowcrete,” staff reported 55 notices and five fines under the town’s snow‑removal ordinance. Council members argued for volunteer outreach and adjustments; a motion to suspend enforcement and pending fines was made and then withdrawn after detailed debate about fairness and process.
Planning staff reported on implementation of the Snow Removal Ordinance (Town Code §70‑81), explaining that the January storm left compacted “snowcrete,” complicating removal. Staff said 55 notices were issued; seven properties remained noncompliant by the enforcement cutoff and five fines totaling $250 had been assessed (two had been paid). Staff also described an outreach protocol and the process for notifying property owners.
Council members debated a motion to “suspend all enforcement of section 70‑81, including any pending fines, until council has conducted outreach to local churches and nonprofit organizations and returns with recommendations.” Supporters said a temporary suspension would allow the town to coordinate volunteer assistance and avoid penalizing residents who lacked notice or means; opponents said retroactive waivers would be unfair to people who already paid, and that clearer rules and better communication were the right fixes. The maker of the suspension motion withdrew it after extended discussion, and council directed staff to pursue outreach and return with recommendations on enforcement refinements, volunteer coordination and possible ordinance adjustments.
