Province, municipalities save on snow clearing this mild winter

The lack of snow on P.E.I. this winter compared to the past two winters has been a welcome reprieve for Islanders and municipalities alike.

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This time last year, plow operators were putting in long hours, clearing roads and sidewalks as storm after storm dumped a record amount of snow across the Island.

"They do have more opportunity to stop, catch their breath, and it's a lot easier on the gear as well," said P.E.I's Director of Highway Maintenance Darren Chaisson.

"The last couple winters have been really tough on our gear, and it's really shortened the lifespan, so a winter like this, less heavy snow to push around, makes up for those last few winters."

The province is on target to spend its $15 million snow-clearing budget, which Chaisson said is a big improvement over the past two years, when P.E.I. went $5 to $6 millionover its budget.

"The last two years made this seem like an easy winter to deal with, but in reality this is what we typically expect, and this is what we are budgeted for, a winter like this," Chaisson said.

We certainly can't hedge our bets unless Boomer Gallant can guarantee a snow-free forecast. Bob Ashley, Summerside CAO

Private plow company Twins Snow Removal in Charlottetown charges by the season so has saved some money but not as much as people mightthink.

"Regular staff, we have them on salary, they get paid regardless," said co-owner Nathan MacDonald, noting the winter did give those employees awelcome break after the past two winters.

Minor savings

"Fixed costs such as tractors, insurance and salt, those costs never go away, so the only thing we've saving on isa little bit of fuel and parts," said MacDonald.

Both the cities of Charlottetown and Summerside told CBC News they have saved on overtime and salt and sand.

"While some will say, you've only had one-third of the snow, it's not that linear relationship," said Charlottetown Public Works manager Paul Johnston, noting that like the private contractors, the city has fixed staffing costs.

"Snow-clearing demands this year have declined sharply from last year," said Summerside CAO Bob Ashley, adding the city has so far saved about $180,000 on snow removal and is considering using some of that money to start a reserve fund for snow-clearing, so they'll be better prepared for the next wicked winter.

"It's a good year all-round," said Ashley. "But we certainly can't hedge our bets unless Boomer Gallant can guarantee a snow-free forecast."