2026-18

A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR SNOW STORM PREPAREDNESS AND REMOVAL OPERATIONS

WHEREAS, on Sunday January 25th, the City of Newport experienced a snow storm that left a foot of snow coupled with overnight sleeting rain and temperatures below freezing; and

WHEREAS, it is in the public interest for the City of Newport to maintain safe driving and walking conditions on public rights-of-way during the winter season; and

WHEREAS, the City recognizes that snow and ice removal is vital for the delivery of emergency services by Fire, Police, and Medical personnel; and

WHEREAS, in order to help the hardworking members of the Public Services Department, it is necessary to establish clear priorities and guidelines to manage municipal resources efficiently, and now therefore be it

RESOLVED, that the City Council directs the City Administration to revisit current ordinances in place to help safely expedite the removal of snow and ice from City streets through the following steps:

A. Operational Priorities of Primary, Secondary and Residential streets
B. Sidewalk and driveway responsibilities of property owners
C. Prohibited acts of snow dumping into City streets
D. Parking Bans and Obstructions
E. Public Communication through real-time updates; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT

RESOLVED, that the administration will inform City Council of changes made to current procedural operations and enact them as soon as possible.

CHARLES M. HOLDER, JR.
ELLEN PINNOCK
STEPHANIE SMYTH

IN COUNCIL
READ AND PASSED
FEBRUARY 11, 2026

Laura C. Swistak, CMC
City Clerk