Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Wichita city leaders dug deeper into the budget for more money to remove snow and ice from our streets.

After a brutal summer scorcher, it may be difficult to remember snow drifts and freezing temperatures early this year. The city spent most of its budget for snow and ice removal in the first half of 2011 leaving only $18,000 for the rest of the year. Today, the Wichita City Council approved amending the budget to add $70,000 for November and December, just in case.

"We are a little low in terms of available funds, because we had some storms last year that increased our costs," said Bob Layton, city manager.

Public works will use the extra funds to buy salt, curb guards and plow blades, and believe it or not, the blades will be put on the snow plows this week as crews ramp up for winter weather.