Vancouver mayor responds to snow complaints, welcomes public feedback

Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson responded Monday to criticism about the snow-and ice-clogged side streets around the city, saying he is open to public feedback on how the city should deal with snow removal.

"We've had extraordinary circumstances," said Robertson. "Finances are challenging right now. We have to be careful about how we address this in the future."

Robertson said clearing main streets in Vancouver has already cost the city $2.8 million, about double the amount originally budgeted. The city, in fact, had to dip into its contingency fund to finance the additional costs.

The mayor said this season's snowfall has been unprecedented and was the heaviest the south coast has seen since 1964.

"We have 47 snow plow trucks. We're looking at adding four more for going into next winter so we'll be at 51… even when the snow is dumping, we are able to have a significant fleet of trucks out there dealing with our major routes and keeping those clear."

Environment Canada says in December alone, the south coast received roughly twice the amount of snow expected in an entire year. Eighty-nine centimetres of snow fell in December, while the average amount is 16 centimetres. The annual average snowfall is 48 centimetres.

Looking for public hearing

NPA city Coun. Suzanne Anton believes current efforts are inadequate and wants a public hearing to address citizens' concerns.

"People are absolutely stuck in their homes. They haven't got garbage pickup. They certainly don't get a newspaper. They can't get grocery delivery. They can't get a taxi to come to their front door. They are absolutely stuck."

She added that bylaws need to be strengthened to compel homeowners to clear the sidewalks outside their homes. Currently, homeowners are not required to clear them.

Robertson agreed more needs to be done to deal with icy side streets. He also said the city will ensure bylaws compelling business owners to clear the areas outside their commercial spaces will be enforced.

But with heavy rain expected in the coming days, the focus is shifting. Crews will be out clearing drains around the city so melting snow won't cause flooding.