The Mount Vernon City Council has entered into an agreement with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) to collaborate on snow and ice removal from state highways. This agreement was approved during the council's meeting on November 25.
According to draft minutes from the meeting, Law Director Rob Broeren said that the city clears snow from certain township roads based on their proximity to city limits.
The draft minutes indicate that the city council authorized a resolution allowing the Safety-Service director to enter into contracts with ODOT for snow and ice removal. This includes using control materials on state highways within and adjacent to the city. The Ohio Revised Code permits ODOT or political subdivisions to provide such services on roads under state or local control.
Broeren noted that ODOT is prepared to handle snow and ice removal, as well as apply salt, on sections of U.S. Route 36 and State Routes 3, 13, 229, 586, 661, and 768 within Mount Vernon city limits if an agreement is in place. Conversely, the city will manage these tasks for highway portions outside its boundaries.
The draft minutes further clarify that the ordinance does not cover snow and ice removal from driveways, parking areas, or intersecting roads and streets.
Councilman Mel Severns proposed approving the agreement for snow and ice removal, which was seconded by Councilman John Ruckman. The resolution passed unanimously. The next city council meeting is scheduled for December 9 at 7:30 p.m., with committee meetings preceding it.
