Board adopts snow policy

MEEKER I After receiving several complaints and phone calls from local citizens, it was determined that the Town of Meeker did not have an official snow removal policy. But they do now, after adopting one at their Jan. 8 meeting.
Town administrator Scott Meszaros, while attempting to resolve numerous complaints from citizens, said he was unable to find a policy for staff to follow or information to give to citizens about snow removal. One issue was snow being pushed into the streets from private parking lots and the additional costs for the public works department to haul the snow away.
After much discussion, trustees voted 4-2 to adopt a snow removal policy which states, “It is unlawful for any person to place snow or ice upon public property, including public streets.” The public works department can bill property owners for the removal of unlawfully placed snow after a minimum fee of $50.
Trustees also listened to guest speaker Scott McInnis talk about the benefits of renewing their Associated Governments of Northwest Colorado (AGNC) membership. They will make a decision on the renewal at the next meeting.
AGNC executive director Scott McInnis said the group was building their leadership to “get our voice back,” and to be ready for the next legislative session. AGNC serves the voluntary regional association representing towns in Rio Blanco, Garfield, Moffat, Routt and Mesa counties, lobbying in the best interest of the counties as it relates to energy and economic development.
Town trustees also heard an update on the Curtis Creek feasibility study from Rio Blanco County administrator Kimberly Bullen and local contractor Jerry Belland. The study will determine the feasibility of bringing water and sewer lines to the industrial park northeast of Meeker. The group is waiting on water cost estimates and will meet with county commissioners and the Meeker Sanitation District in the near future.