Snow and potholes are an inevitability in a place like Saskatchewan, but now it's significantly easier to get something done about the problem. The City of Yorkton has launched its new online Snow and Pothole Hotline, and promises fast response to any complaints received.
Brian Stanicki, Public Works Roadways Manager, says the city's goal is to have a response time of one business day to any calls received. With the online system, it is now both easier to register a problem, as well as easier for city workers to access the database to receive reports, as they can receive updates wherever they are in the city.
There will be a dedicated person responding to any calls, with three workers being part of the program at the moment and they will determine the response required for any pothole and snow removal. Stanicki says that the new system has benefits for city crews as well, since it allows them to better prioritize how to use equipment and resources as well as respond quickly to any issues someone may have.
The city will also use the new snow removal guidelines to determine whether snow from the end of driveways is removed, with the city getting involved if it is twelve inches or higher. Stanicki says that the standard was decided by looking at other jurisdictions.
To use the service there are two options. Citizens can visit yorkton.ca and click on the Snow and Pothole Hotline link. Once there, they will fill out a form which outlines the location and the specific problem. They may also call 306-782-7669 and leave a detailed message, including the address, the problem itself and contact information. A planned feature for the future will see residents who leave an email address will also be automatically notified when the problem is resolved. While any software launch has bugs which need to be worked out, Stanicki anticipates a smooth launch.
Mayor Bob Maloney says that the city is proud of the snow removal service that Yorkton provides, and that this program is designed to continue giving residents service that few other cities in the province are able to match.
