– DPW costs exceed budget as icing and a major storm strain winter operations –
The Finance Committee voted unanimously Wednesday night to authorize deficit spending for the town’s snow‑and‑ice budget after a series of winter storms pushed costs beyond the amount allocated for the season.
Town officials explained that a major storm in late January, paired with heavy icing earlier in the winter, quickly exhausted the $675,000 snow‑and‑ice budget. Chief Financial Officer Sharon Angstrom noted that last week’s storm was “quite a doozy” and said the town expects to request a significant supplemental appropriation at April Town Meeting.
Because Massachusetts law allows communities to deficit‑spend only with acknowledgement from their finance committees, the vote was required before the DPW could continue storm‑response operations.
Costs Already Over Budget
DPW Director Chris Cole reported that the town has spent roughly $705,000 to date—about $35,000 over budget. He said early‑season icing drove up salt usage and staffing needs, and the major storm in January added substantial overtime and contractor costs.
Cole also clarified that:
- Daytime post‑storm cleanup typically falls under regular DPW salaries.
- Any overtime is charged to the snow‑and‑ice account.
- Contractor support remains essential due to limited in‑house staffing.
Committee Raises Operational Questions
Several members asked operational questions, including whether post‑storm roadway widening falls under the snow‑and‑ice budget and whether the town still faces a shortage of private plow contractors.
Cole clarified the split:
If it’s during the day, it’s coming out of regular DPW salaries. But if it’s overtime, it’s coming out of snow and ice.”
As for contracted help, he noted the town “can always use more,” but that Reading continues to manage with its current roster. Members also discussed the timing of costs and whether extended storm hours on Sundays trigger additional contractual pay.
Unanimous Approval
The committee voted unanimously to authorize deficit spending, with all nine members in favor. The approval allows the town to continue winter operations uninterrupted while preparing a formal funding request for April Town Meeting.
