Calla, DPW Work Through Another Snowstorm Here

This has been a very busy winter for the Winthrop Department of Public Works.

Tuesday’s snowstorm, which dropped a few inches on the town, was the tenth time that DPW Director Steve Calla and his crew went into snowplowing and street salting operations mode in the past three months.

“We started salting the roads around noontime,” said Calla. “We were out for about twelve hours in different shifts and wrapped it up around midnight.”

Calla said the snow fighting equipment, the majority of which is 15 years or older, has withstood the challenge of the tough conditions.

“We continue to repair the equipment and do our best to keep them in good running shape – the mechanics have done a good job to keep them road worthy,” said Calla.

Calla said the DPW has exhausted the $80,000 in the town’s “snow” budget.  “That budget is for supplies and equipment associated with snow and other weather-related events,” said Calla, adding that the department’s overall budget is on track.

The Town Council praised Calla and his department for their efforts at Tuesday’s Council meeting.

“The guys have been great,” said Calla. “Like I’ve said before on many occasions, we have a dedicated crew and I’m very proud of them. They’re always willing to come in and get the job done and they always do.”

Calla is hoping for warmer temperatures and snow-free days as spring beckons.

“We’re looking forward to a little bit of a warming trend,” said Calla, who keeps a watchful eye on long-range weather forecasts. “I hope there is no more snow this year.”