Snow & Ice Control Policies

The City of New Ulm (herein called the "City") believes that it is in the best interest of the general public for the City to assume basic responsibility for control of snow and ice on City streets.

Reasonable snow and ice control is necessary for emergency services as well as routine travel. The City will provide such control in a safe and cost-effective manner, keeping in mind public safety, budget, personnel, and environmental concerns. The City will use City employees and equipment and/or private contractors to provide this service.

The City asks that the general public also assume a certain responsibility for themselves and others when walking or operating a motor vehicle in less than ideal conditions. Plowing and chemical treatment of the streets and sidewalks does not remove every hazardous condition related to winter travel.

Criteria to Begin Snow & Ice Control Operations

The Street Commissioner or the Street Commissioners designee shall determine when to begin snow and/or ice control operations based on the following criteria:

• Snow accumulations and drifting
• Icy pavement conditions
• Wind conditions
• Timing in relation to traffic

Snow and ice control operations are expensive and involve the use of limited personnel and equipment, therefore the decision to begin operations is very complex. Each decision is based on the available information and circumstances at that specific time. Conditions may change rapidly during an event that may dramatically change the immediate operations. Each snow and ice event is unique.