Story posted Wednesday, June 17, 2009
City Council Tweaks Snow Clearing Ordinance
Park Ridge Committee of the Whole on Monday, June 8 agreed to an ordinance requiring business owners to keep their sidewalks clear after a snow, but did not approve a proposal to prohibit residents from pushing snow onto the streets or sidewalks.
Aldermen requested changes in the proposed ordinance for business owners including adding language to limit it to commercial properties in case a former business is closed and to not create a potential cause of action by a pedestrian falling on snow.
The ordinance calls for business owners to clear any snowfall of two or more inches from the public sidewalk within 24 hours. The business must also keep the sidewalk clear of any snow, ice, or other obstructions. Penalties include a daily fine of $50 to $500.
However, aldermen deferred a second snow-related proposal. Public Works Director Wayne Zingsheim said he has presented the idea several times in the past. He explained people wait until the streets are clear then push the snow back into the street causing a traffic hazard and requiring additional plowing by public works employees.
Aldermen worried about homes where the sidewalk is adjacent to the street and suggested the rule only apply after the streets are plowed. After additional discussion, the committee deferred the proposal to allow Zingsheim time to modify it.
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