A report headed to Sudbury city council next week reveals that cleaning up after the March winter storm cost $7.8 million, with the bulk of expenses attributed to staffing costs.
Storm cleanup costs detailed
The report, prepared by city staff, outlines that the majority of the $7.8 million expenditure went toward overtime and additional staffing required to clear roads, sidewalks, and public spaces. The storm, which struck in late March, dumped significant snow and caused widespread disruption across the city.
According to the report, the city mobilized hundreds of workers and equipment to manage the aftermath, leading to the high costs. The figure includes expenses for snow removal, sanding, and other emergency measures.
Impact on city budget
The $7.8 million price tag is expected to put pressure on the city's budget, though officials have indicated that some costs may be recoverable through provincial disaster relief programs. The report will be discussed at the upcoming city council meeting, where councillors will consider the financial implications and potential recovery options.
“The storm was unprecedented in its intensity and duration, requiring a massive response from our crews,” said a city official in the report. “We are grateful for their hard work, but the costs are significant.”
Comparison to previous storms
The March storm is among the costliest in Sudbury's recent history. Previous winter storms have typically resulted in cleanup costs ranging from $2 million to $4 million. The $7.8 million figure reflects the severity and extended nature of the event, which included multiple days of heavy snowfall and freezing rain.
City staff are also reviewing the response to identify any lessons learned for future storm events. The report recommends updating the city's winter maintenance plan to improve efficiency and potentially reduce costs in similar situations.
