The Southwick Board of Selectmen are still working on how to clear new sidewalks. (File photo by chief photographer Frederick Gore)
SOUTHWICK – The Board of Selectmen is still considering its snow removal options for property owners on College Highway.
Last night the board discussed another option for the town to assist people who have to deal with removing hard-packed snow on the new sidewalks, where the lack of tree belts essentially creates snow banks on the sidewalk.
Last week the board found out a piece of equipment it considered leasing was no longer available. This week, Department of Public Works Director Jeffrey Neece said Bobcat of Greater Springfield has something that would work.
“It’s not comparable in size but it’s comparable in what it can do,” Neece said.
The small Bobcat does not have a blower attachment. However, Neece said he would contact the seller to see if one is available. Neece said the machine could be leased for the remainder of the winter for $1,500 per month.
Neece said without the blower, there would be an edge – either on the sidewalk or street – that would have some snow.
“We’d have some impact on the sidewalk or the road in some places,” he said.
Selectwoman Tracy Cesan said she has received numerous calls from residents complaining it is unfair for the town to take care of those sidewalks, but other property owners in town must remove snow from their sidewalks.
According to Town Counsel Kenneth Albano the town could charge for the service. That option is something Cesan hopes is explored for future years. For now, the board agreed to try to alleviate the problem for safety reasons.
“The state created this,” said Selectmen Russell Fox. “This is a safety issue.”
Albano also told the board if it touches the sidewalks, it is fully responsible for clearing them, including sanding and salting.
“We do not have the equipment for sanding and salting,” said Neece.
The Southwick Cemetery Commission has equipment that could also clear the sidewalks. The board agreed to speak to the commission to see if it is available and Fox asked to further discuss the town’s options with Albano.
