Winter Weather DPW Costs Have Reached $115K

Amidst what has become one of the region's most winter-worn seasons in recorded history, funds allocated in municipal budgets for things like snow removal and salt have been driven to the brink and beyond.

Count Morristown in that unfortunate list.

As of Feb. 2, Morristown has spent over $115,000 for road maintenance as a result of the seemingly-constant snowstorms. This includes nearly $30,000 for regular employee hours, over $54,000 for overtime, about $1,600 for meals provided to employees during overtime and over $29,000 for salt, said Jeff Hartke, head of the Morristown Department of Public Works. The figures also include December 2010, which saw the biggest snow event of the season.

Comparison to last year's numbers is sobering From 2009 through Feb. 2010, the town spent a total of $65,740, not including salt, which this year is now included directly into the cost figures.

"And, we still have February and March to go here," Hartke said.

While the numbers are higher than last year, which already was considered higher than average for snow related events, Hartke said the town would continue to provide the same service that needs to be provided.

"We do what we have to do," he said. "It’s costing us more than average … Seems like it’s been non-stop.

"The town will do what it has to do to keep the streets safe, period," Hartke said. "That’s one thing you do not touch."

2010-11 Morristown Winter Weather Budget (as of Feb. 2, 2011):

Regular

$29,669.63

Overtime

$54,390.29

Meals (required to be provided if employee works overtime)

$1,595

Salt

$29,469

Total

$115,123.92