The accumulation of last Monday’s snowstorm (Jan. 8) across the Golden Belt provided not only needed moisture, which was appreciated, but also safety issues and inconvenience, which was not.

Maintaining access to streets and getting them clear has been a concern for all communities affected. In Hoisington, City Manager Jonathan Mitchell noted the city office had received many calls regarding snow removal and shoveling out driveways since Tuesday morning.

“Monday’s storm brought a significant amount of snow,” Mitchell said Wednesday morning. “For our city staff, we have historically not done any driveway clearing. There are a lot of private services that are offering that.”

He said that Scott Christians Construction and C-Dub Construction have approached the city to remind them they provide private snow removal service when needed. “I am sure there are others,” he said. “I’m sure that if they contact any contractors they are familiar with, they may be able to arrange for snow removal.”

Meanwhile, Mitchell noted that city crews have been concentrating on clearing streets since 3 a.m. Tuesday. The snow is gradually being collected and transferred to a vacant lot the city has south of town for that purpose. 

“Our city staff had a very long day yesterday (Tuesday) and today (Wednesday Jan. 10) they are piling up snow and then hauling it out,” he said. “They are going to continue to be busy.

“We understand the people’s frustration and appreciate everyone’s patience,” he said. “This snow is not much fun but we can work through it together.”