Last year, a storm at the end of January produced heavy snow and accumulated ice on power lines. This caused blackouts in the Bowling Green area. A year later, there’s been a change of scenery. This odd winter weather is affecting the budget of Bowling Green.
“At the end of the year if this mild streak continues we should have money left over in the snow removal account,” said Jeff Lashlee, Bowling Green public works director.
Snow removal is paired with street sweeping in the budget. This budget totals $135,000 with $60,000 going toward salt. This winter has also affected the snow plow drivers and the hours they work. Lashlee says that it is just less work that the drivers have to do. They haven’t had to be out at all hours of the night because of the weather.
“The jet stream has been in Canada and we are just not getting any of the cold air,” said Josh Durkee, WKU Meteorology professor.
This weather leaves Bowling Green with tons of salt. The city bought 2,000 tons for this year, which is an increase of 400 tons from last year. They have only used 171 tons of salt this winter season. If this salt is not used, it will be saved for the next winter season. This could continue to be good for the budget in years to come.
