Ignace council discusses windrow removal
Ignace council is debating the idea of the township clearing snow left in front of people’s driveways by the plows.
The township acquired four years ago a piece of equipment known as a snowgate that removed windrows.
Chief Administrative Officer Aaron Gullins says they had to stop using it.
“The one that we had was too large for that machine (grader),” says Gullins.
“It breaks down all the time, it was too large, and it puts wear and tear on the existing machine because you have weight on the end of the wing.”
In a report, Gullins noted that it would cost the township between $150,000 and $250,000 for new equipment.
Councillor John Taddeo would like to see what options are available, especially for seniors.
He says the township, at one time, used to plow driveways.
While not advocating a return to the practice, he would like to look at what can be done to remove the snow left by the plow.
“I think we have enough manpower and enough equipment down there,” says Taddeo.
“When we’re running the grader, somebody can be at the back. Just one little scoop and move on.”
Gullins says there is concern that it could slow down the process of clearing the roads, leading to an increase in complaints to the township.
Councillor Wayne Minnear admits there would be a cost to whatever direction was taken.
“This is going to be a costly for taxpayers, whether it’s to either buy a new piece of equipment or have a take-up time with the rest of the personnel at the public works to address the cleaning of X number of driveways,” says Minnear.
A motion to provides direction for township staff is expected to be presented to council in February.
