Winnipeg’s snow clearing budget has consistently exceeded its allocated amount for the past decade, according to a recent report.
The report, released by the city’s auditor general, revealed that the snow clearing budget has been overspent by an average of $6.3 million each year since 2010. This amounts to a total overspending of $63 million over the past ten years.
The report also highlighted that the overspending was due to a combination of factors, including unexpected snowfall, equipment breakdowns, and increased labor costs. In addition, the report noted that the city’s snow clearing policy, which prioritizes main routes over residential streets, has also contributed to the overspending.
City officials have acknowledged the findings of the report and have stated that they are taking steps to address the issue. This includes implementing a new snow clearing policy that will prioritize both main routes and residential streets, as well as investing in new equipment to improve efficiency.
However, some residents are expressing frustration over the overspending, citing the poor condition of their residential streets during the winter months. They are calling for the city to allocate more funds towards snow clearing to ensure that all streets are cleared in a timely and efficient manner.
Despite the overspending, the report also noted that the city’s snow clearing efforts have improved in recent years. In 2019, the city was able to clear 90% of main routes within 12 hours of a snowfall, compared to only 60% in 2010.
The auditor general’s report serves as a reminder for the city to continuously review and improve its snow clearing policies and procedures to ensure that taxpayers’ money is being used effectively and efficiently.
