2014-03-25_PWETC_Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Chair Vanderwall asked staff to include retired commissioners on the tour as well; which was duly noted by Mr. Schwartz. 8. Staff Update on 2013/2014 Snow Management Process Mr. Schwartz provided an update to the PWETC on 2013/2014 snow management efforts as detailed in the staff report and his March 19, 2014 memorandum to City Manager Patrick Trudgeon entitled, "State Contract Ice Control Materials Purchasing," as had been requested by the City Council. Discussion among staff and commissioners included the little amount of salt on hand, and increased use of sand, recognizing the negative impact on the stormwater system; preparations of street vacuuming/sweeping in the near future as soon as the weather allowed; and anticipated increase in many agencies in their salt requests for next season to have additional security with larger reserves and to rebuild depleted reserves if large enough storage facilities were available, and related impacts to prices. Mr. Schwartz advised that most states were experiencing similar shortages, as well as production issues created with those additional requests. Chair Vanderwall asked staff the results of their conversations with Ramsey County in addressing those areas on County roads throughout the City that needed more attention, particularly at intersections. Chair Vanderwall noted the difficulties in meeting local requirements when main arterials throughout the community were controlled by other jurisdictions. In defense of Ramsey County efforts, Mr. Schwartz advised that their roadways were often faced with much higher traffic volumes; and with the cold temperatures, the materials applied had limited effectiveness, especially with the products available during the most recent storm event. Mr. Schwartz advised that City staff forwarded citizen, Police and Fire Department complaints as applicable to Ramsey County as they were received, and Ramsey County had shown up to treat those areas. However, Mr. Schwartz noted that often, within a few hours that material was no longer effective, or pushed off to the side or blown off by traffic volumes. Mr. Schwartz noted that the last snow event had also been an issue of timing, opining that it was rare that prolonged cold weather occurred after such an event. While Ramsey County did secure additional salt at some point, Mr. Schwartz noted that when temperatures warmed it made a world of difference. Whether or not Ramsey County could have done better, Mr. Schwartz could not offer an opinion. Chair Vanderwall opined that, in his 38 years in the transportation industry, this had been the worst winter in his memory, and the snow event referenced by Mr. Schwartz the worst episode he'd seen—both how it started and its length. Chair Vanderwall noted that agencies were out working on the issues, but received little for their efforts expended; which was now leading to resulting potholes and the patching being experienced throughout the metropolitan area. Page 11 of 14