Cēsis spends several tens of thousands on snow removal; Valmiera does not remove snow
Cēsis has invested significantly in snow removal this winter, while Valmiera has not needed to do so for several years.
In Cēsis, the local government has spent over 30,000 euros on snow removal this winter, with about 1,500 cubic meters of snow cleared on average during the season. The community is attentive to snow heaps that impact visibility at intersections and pedestrian movement, as shared by Egils Kurpnieks, the deputy head of the Property Management Department of Cēsis municipality. The snow collected is transported to designated areas where it does not disrupt traffic or residents.
Conversely, in Valmiera, snow removal has not been necessary for several years. Andris Kabraks, the chairman of the board of Valmieras namsaimnieks, stated that the costly snow removal service only comes into play when the city runs out of options for pushing or burying the snow. Despite not needing snow removal, Valmiera is experiencing rising costs associated with winter maintenance, including a more than 30% increase in the consumption of anti-slip materials this winter.
This contrast between Cēsis and Valmiera highlights the varying challenges local municipalities face during the winter months. While Cēsis actively manages snow removal to ensure public safety and mobility, Valmiera's approach reflects its current circumstances, suggesting a careful balance of resources and needs. The increased costs for anti-slip materials, even in the absence of snow removal, indicate ongoing financial pressures on municipal budgets due to winter preparations and maintenance.