In response to the impending adverse weather expected Tuesday January 21st, we want to remind all our residents of the provisions in Township Ordinance Chapter 265 "Snow and Ice".
Howell Township has a parking ordinance in place, Township Ordinance 265-1, to facilitate snow removal on public streets. The ordinance prohibits parking on public streets during a snow event as well as parking a vehicle so that it extends into the roadway whenever snow has fallen and the accumulation is such that it covers the street or highway, an emergency shall exist and no vehicles, equipment or personal property shall be parked on the streets, roadways, highways or right-of-ways. The parking prohibitions shall remain in effect after the snow has ceased, until all sanding and plowing has been accomplished, and to the extent that parking will not interfere with the normal flow of traffic. This is especially critical in cul-de-sacs.
The Department of Public Works, during a snowstorm, may first open one lane of traffic in each direction on every town road depending on the amount of snow. This is done in anticipation of any emergencies that may arise. Then we will go back and plow the snow back to the curb exposing the storm drains. Top priorities during plowing operations are all main and secondary roads first.
Residents can help in three ways: don't travel unless necessary; don't shovel or blow snow onto plowed or treated streets (the Township has an ordinance that prohibits this, under penalty of law); and move your car off the street, so that plows have more room to operate. Be prepared: Get all necessary food, water, medications, etc. As a general rule, you should make sure you have enough supplies to last at least two to three days.
Residents are asked to remain patient. Patience and co-operation from residents will help us conduct a more efficient snow removal.
Most Sincerely,
Jeffrey Filiatreault
Township Manager