With winter fast approaching and snow in the forecast, North Battleford is reminding residents of the priority street clearing system as well as the details from the bylaw for sidewalk clearing.
As well, the City is reminding residents about a new initiative called the Snow Angels in effect in other cities.
The Snow Angel Program encourages residents to help others such as elderly residents or anyone with health or mobility restrictions to clear the sidewalk.
If those who lend a helping hand to a resident who needs it or those who receive help from someone notify the City, they can be nominated as Snow Angels. Residents are encouraged to write or email their Snow Angel story directly to City, including the Snow Angel's name and address. Nominations can be mailed to: City of North Battleford, Box 460, 1291 - 101st St., North Battleford, S9A 2Y6. They can be emailed to: [email protected].
All Snow Angels will receive a thank you in the mail from the City, and will be entered into monthly prize draws.
The City's Public Works Department is pledging its crews and equipment are all set for the coming 2013-14 season. In a news release the City explained it sets priorities for snow clearing and sanding after a snowfall. The department starts by clearing main arteries, emergency routes and access points before moving to secondary streets. There are times intersections will be closed and blockades set up to prevent accidents, in which case drivers are asked to find alternate routes to allow the plows, graders and trucks to do their work.
The City is also reminding residents and business owners they are responsible for clearing all sidewalks adjacent to their own property. Downtown, the City will clear sidewalks and driveway entrances if residents and business owners do not comply within 24 hours after a snowfall. Outside downtown, sidewalks must be cleared within 48 hours.
If the City does the clearing, the property owner or business owner will be charged for the costs. Residents can view the provisions of the Sidewalk Clearing Bylaw No. 1900 at www.cityofnb.ca under the City Government section. The Street/Sidewalk Priority Clearing System Map can be seen at http://www.cityofnb.ca/city_government/maps.html.
