Minutes - Public Works Committee - 04/15/2008

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Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Elvig and Councilmember Dehen. Voting No: None. Absent: Councilmember Olson. COMMITTEE BUSINESS Case #1: Summary for 2007-2008 Snow Removal Season Public Works Supervisor Reimer stated that there were 7 major plowing events this season and 18 minor events. He stated that the snow removal season started on December 2, 2007 and ended April 11, 2008. He stated that they began pre-wetting the salt this year using a product called Caliber MI000 which is a com based product. He stated that part of the usefulness of this product is that there is a reduction in scatter and bounce as it is laid down on the streets. He stated because they didn't receive the product until the middle of January, they only had a minimal opportunity to use it, but it does appear to do what it promises. He reviewed the complaints received and noted the numbers were similar to past years. He stated that this year there were more calls for sidewalk and trail maintenance but noted that there was a lot of blowing and drifting snow this year. He stated that overall the equipment held up well with only routine maintenance required. He noted that they did bend the blade on the sidewalk machine, but they were able to repair it in house. He stated that they have been able to utilize the Department of Corrections workers for various jobs, like snow removal on the sidewalks near City Hall, and some tree removal. He stated that they are also helping to repair sod and grass that was damaged over the winter. Councilmember Dehen asked if the County trucks used the salt wetting material in their trucks. Public Works Supervisor Reimer stated that they are using them and noted that they have a big white tank on the side of the truck. Councilmember Dehen asked if there were studies that showed that this chemical is safe. Public Works Supervisor Reimer stated that this product has been around for a quite a few years and the City is in the middle of the pack in catching up with technology in this case. Councilmember Dehen asked if the Department of Corrections was giving the City a good bang for its buck and whether the City could use them more. Public Works Director Olson stated that the City is getting a really good deal in using these workers. He stated that he asked about the possibility of adding another day's service, but was told that although they don't oppose adding another day, they are booked and he doesn't have a crew. He stated that there may be a possibility of working out something with a crew that works in Little Canada. Public Works Supervisor Reimer stated that Coon Rapids uses a crew 4 full days a week, but Ramsey would probably only be able to use them 2 days a week. Public Works Committee I April 15, 2008 Page 2 of 11