Chime In – Suttle’s Snow Plan
According to Omaha.com, the office of Jim Suttle has recently released a new plan for snow removal in Omaha. We at the Weekly Grind want to hear what you think.
1. Sure, hiring private snow removal companies would help with the speed and efficiency of getting snow off the streets, but given the current budget crisis and the forecast for a mild winter, do you think this should happen NOW?
2. The plan also details the removal process. One of the highlights is plowing snow into the middle of the streets, as to leave sidewalks and parking stalls snow-free. This is what Lincoln does…and if you’ve ever driven in downtown Lincoln in the winter, it’s a nightmare. The problem with plowing snow into the middle of the streets is on one-ways, it makes it much, much more difficult to change lanes. What do you think? Does this plan make any sense?
We’d love to hear your comments.
Yes, it should happen now. According to other non-Omaha.com news sites, the money comes from gas tax funds and not general fund money; which is where the shortfalls were from. Plus, a Good leader gets out ahead of an issue. I’ve heard mild winter and severe winter forecasts, which means: nobody knows for sure. Having a plan is never a bad thing. It’s more than we ever got with Fahey’s admin.
Both great points, Paul. You’re right, who knows about nebraska weather? And thanks for the insight about the funding.
I don’t like the plan to pay them to “be on call.” When does the clock start for them? If it doesn’t snow, do they still get paid? I think it’s perfectly fine to hire private companies because you won’t be paying your city workers as much overtime (in theory), but I just hope that doesn’t mean the private companies are getting paid for not doing anything.
Well, I’ll be. I’ve got to say, I’m an awfully big proponent of the government using private companies to perform services.
Now that said, I don’t know how this is laid out. As commenter Josh pointed out, if it is a deal where the city is just paying across the board to several private companies to be “on call,” then it essentially does not enhance anything for the city.
On the other hand, if these services are being bid out and awarded to the most competitive bidder, then I’m all about it.
Unfortunately, it does not sound like that is the case. We will attempt to follow up with the Mayor’s office for official word.
–Mike Shearer