Town Council To Take Up Snow Removal

For weeks, business owners, especially those along or near Bloomfield Avenue, have been complaining that Montclair's inability to clear away snow—and quickly—has led to a shortage of parking this winter.

But that could change.

Councilors Cary Africk and Rich Murnick say they will present a resolution at the Township Council meeting Tuesday evening that would authorize the expenditure of overtime money to address snow removal problems.

In addition, Africk says the county should begin hauling away snow from Bloomfield Avenue and Valley Road—both county streets—as soon as today.

"The county's work should begin [Thursday] night, but the rest of the work couldn't take place until we pass the resolution," Africk said.

Africk said that he and Murnick have been meeting with business owners and residents concerned about the difficulties with snow and ice and their impact on parking and access.

He said that Township Manager Marc Dashield has gained the cooparation of the county, which "will be doing additional work on Bloomfield and Valley within the next few days."

Africk said he also discussed with Dashield the recent designation of "Emergency No Parking" streets due to snow buildup and whether the designation could be kept in place permanently.

"That will require an ordinance," he said. "We will continue our discussions."