Winter is coming

    With elections now behind us and the length of the days shorter, it’s a sure sign that winter is just around the corner. As we all prepare for the winter season, here are some winter related tips as they pertain to the City that you can help us with. These might sound simplistic, but we receive calls on these topics each year.     Roadways. Snowplow drivers work hard to make sure the winter streets are cleared from snow and ice. One of the safest ways to insure your safety for winter driving is to slow down. Plan your trips ahead of time so you don’t have to hurry.
    Sidewalks. The city clears sidewalks after the City’s streets are cleared from snow. Always use caution and wear appropriate footwear during the winter months. The City does not want anyone to slip and fall on our sidewalks.
    Snowplows. The snowplow drivers and heavy equipment operators work long hours to remove snow and keep our roadways safe. Do not tailgate and keep a safe distance from them. In many instances the plow trucks are required to back up to turn. Make sure you are not behind them as they may not see you.
    Mailboxes. The city is not responsible for damaged mailboxes and we try hard not to damage them. Keep your mail box a safe distance from the shoulder of the roadway and clear the snow around it. Sometime, mailboxes are damaged by the snow from the snow bank, and not the plow itself.
    City buildings. Each city building that is not staffed on a full time basis has a red light connected to a thermostat. If you see a red light on in any city building window, please notify the police department. They will contact the appropriate person to check the heat level in the building.
    Overnight parking. There is no overnight parking in the downtown area after November 1st each year. This allows for snow removal. So, please make sure you park in areas that allow for overnight parking.
    Cancellations. If the city closes due to severe weather or cancels programs, it will notify the local television and radio stations. Listen for announcements and plan accordingly.
    And, get out and enjoy the winter season. It’s a fun time of year if you plan for it.
    Thomas Stevens is Presque Isle’s city manager. He can be reached at 764-4485 or via e-mail at tstevens@presqueisleme.us.