A Moment with the Mayor: Spring, is it here for real?

The weather outside provides us with both excitement and concern at this time of the year. Safety is at the top of the list for all of us as we experience the ever-changing seasons and conditions throughout the city. The recent warmer temperatures has the recent spring storm starting to melt as city crews and contractors work to remove the snow so repairing of the asphalt can begin. 

This week, a warning has been sent out to all residents about the safety of the stormwater retention ponds as the spring thaw begins in earnest. Frozen water is always attractive to kids and pets, so please keep everyone safe. All city-maintained outdoor ice surfaces are now closed for the season. As we experience warmer weather, all ice surfaces need to be approached with caution. The conditions at Bud Miller Lake are monitored, and it is included in the ice surfaces that are not being maintained due to the early signs of spring.

Another example that we should all be aware of as we drive the streets of our city is snow that is melting and is trying to make its way to the storm drains. In some cases, the drains may be frozen or plugged. The resulting water puddles and can cause safety issues for pedestrians and drivers alike. Please remember to drive by slowly when there are large puddles or when members of our city team are out trying to work on drainage and other repairs on the roadways in our city. 

The other real part of spring is pedestrians and cyclists are out enjoying the weather. I have noticed that all our young neighbours are out and about. For some of these, the driveway, sidewalk and street seem like paradise, and sometimes they forget the rules and dart out onto the streets. I encourage all parents to remind their little people about looking before they cross and even just being aware of neighbours backing out of driveways. As drivers, we need to be extra vigilant right now.

As we all await the arrival of spring, please keep an eye out for the potholes that will soon be upon us. Bear with us as we transition from winter to spring and report large potholes to the city at reportaconcern@lloydminster.ca or call 780-874-3700

Mayor Gerald S. Aalbers
City of Lloydminster