Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Public Works

TO:	Dave Corliss
FROM:	Mark Thiel
CC:	Chuck Soules, Tom Orzulak
Date:	1/12/2010
RE:	Snow Operations Update 2009 / 2010 Season

So far this 2009 / 2010 snow season has been challenging to say the least. In an average season Lawrence, KS will see 10 snow events and 21” of snow. To date this season has produced 25.95” of snow over 6 events over a 21 day period with an operational cost of $476,116.21. This cost is for the Street Division only.

Last year at this same time we had a total of 4 events with a snow total of 6” at a cost of $180,137.23. It is not an easy analysis to compare event cost to budget since this is not a program type item. The primary comparisons we use are for material consumption which has a direct correlation to a budget line item. Equipment and manpower has to be evaluated for standard time and overtime and whether an employee chooses to receive comp-time or overtime pay. The equipment rate charged is a per piece predetermined cost and with the exception of additional fuel consumption and depreciation these are pieces of equipment we have on hand for year round operations. The only equipment cost that is directly proportional to an actual event is contractor hired and rented.

The primary reason we track each event cost in this manner is related to the storm directly and cost isolated to that specific event and for possible FEMA claims. Currently the City of Lawrence and Douglas County are collecting cost data related to snow event #3 for a possible FEMA reimbursement to the county. The city’s total cost reported for that one event was $251,964.75 which includes all city related operations.

We began the year with 4,000 tons of salt, 1,000 tons of sand and 4,500 ton of sand/salt mix. We have used 2,600 tons of salt and 2,400 tons of sand to date. We have restocked our sand and have 1,000 tons of salt that should be delivered within the next week. On an average winter season we would use about 3,000 tons of salt.

Our equipment has taken a beating over the last four weeks. In a normal season we have enough gaps in event dates that allows up to repair and resupply. Because we have had one event after another equipment break downs and normal maintenance has suffered. We will spend the next several days repairing equipment and performing needed maintenance to get our equipment back at 100% readiness.

One element of snow operations that has been reliable and steadfast is the people that have stepped up and performed exceptionally. During the past four weeks city crews have worked every weekend and every holiday nonstop and without a single complaint. I commended them on an outstanding job and dedication they showed to the City of Lawrence.

In summary, we have incurred a large amount of cost associated with the snow season. As the year progresses we will adjust our budgets accordingly. Potential reductions would come in street maintenance projects. Crews have performed professionally and we are ready to continue the same level of outstanding services to the residents of Lawrence.