By Jessica Dillon
The Martinsville City Council on Feb. 10 heard a breakdown of the city’s snow and ice response following weeks of hazardous conditions that left some residents unable to leave their homes.
Public Works Director Greg Maggard said crews worked 13 consecutive days during the storm period, battling freezing temperatures, inches of snow, and roughly two inches of ice that repeatedly refroze after scraping attempts.
More than 200 tons of sand were placed on city roads, including 150 tons already on hand and an additional 50 tons provided by the Virginia Department of Transportation.
“What we really focused on on these icy roads was to get some traction,” Maggard said.
He said plows often skimmed over solid ice, slowing progress. The city also relied on the See, Click, Fix app, which allowed residents to alert crews to streets still needing attention.
Maggard and council members thanked public works staff for working around the clock to lessen the storm’s impact.
The council also heard funding requests from the Arts and Culture Committee and American Legion Homer Dillard Post #78.
The Arts and Culture Committee requested $50,000 for murals and community events.
Representatives from the American Legion asked for $2,000 to help pave their parking lot, repair a kitchen floor, and upgrade a handicap ramp to meet ADA standards. They said the post receives no state, federal, or local funding and raises its own money. The parking lot has washed out five times.
“We didn’t realize that when we bought the building, it was in the flood plain,” said Curtis Millner Sr., Post # 78 Adjutant. Millner said funds would be used only for the improvements.
Council member Julian Mei asked whether public works could assist with paving and requested a future work session to further discuss the Legion’s needs.
Council member Aaron Rawls suggested the Municipal Building as a temporary meeting location for the Legion. Millner joked that the Harvest Foundation Building would also be a nice option.
The Planning Commission also asked for greater involvement in areas such as providing input on the Berkeley Group’s comprehensive plan.
In other business, the council recognized the Youth Advisory Council during a pinning ceremony and oath of office and approved a proclamation honoring Martinsville City Schools’ accreditation.
