Oshawa Councillors Push for Better Sidewalk Snow Removal

After receiving countless calls from residents – especially seniors – about the slow snow clearing following last week’s heavy snowfall, Oshawa Councillors Brian Nicholson and Tito-Dante Marimpietri are set to propose a motion at Monday’s council meeting aimed at fixing “deficiencies” in the removal of snow and ice from public sidewalks.

Nicholson and Marimpietri feel that the current policies, staffing levels, equipment, and resources are “insufficient” to effectively clear large amounts of snow on public sidewalks and boulevards in a “reasonable time.”

This issue is particularly pressing for seniors – especially those enrolled in the Seniors Snow Assistance Program – as well as individuals with physical disabilities, children going to school and parks, and anyone who needs to use public sidewalks for walking or accessing transit services, according to the motion.

“It is time that access to public sidewalks and the public transit system be given the same support, service and funding as is given to clear snow and ice from the public roadway system.”

The councillors want staff to conduct a detailed review of both the sidewalk clearing program and the Seniors Snow Assistance Program. They are also looking for an action plan to enhance these programs; plus they aim to gather feedback from Oshawa residents regarding their experiences with snow removal on sidewalks.

The target is to finish this public consultation and review so that any recommendations can be included in the 2027 Capital and Operating Budgets, ensuring that approved changes are implemented by next winter.