Bergen County Executive Tedesco, Dressler Discuss Local Preparedness for Snow Storm at Bergen County DPW

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· The County works jointly with our 70 municipalities for snow removal operations. · At the height of the storm, we will have more than 300 plows and heavy equipment deployed throughout the county removing snow, with operators working in 12 hour shifts over the next three days. · This includes 237 units operated by the municipalities, 49 contracted snow removal units ready to deploy within sixty minutes of the order to do so, as well as county plows and heavy equipment · The county supplies 2,800 tons of salt to the 70 municipalities · Our salt shed at this facility holds 3,500 tons of salt and is filled to capacity at this point.”
Director Dressler

Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco and Bergen County Director of Public Works Ray Dressler hosted a news conference today, January 26 at 11 a.m., to discuss local preparedness for the upcoming snow storm at the County public works facility. The following are their remarks as prepared for delivery.

County Executive Tedesco:

· As of now, we’re told that this storm is expected to drop 18-24 inches in Bergen County.

· Beginning Friday, I began working with County OEM and County DPW to plan for this snow event

· The County Road Department is prepared for the storm.

· All equipment has been prepared and is ready to be deployed. We have a full complement of salt on hand for the storm.

· Emergency Management personnel are staffing the Emergency Operations Center 24 hours a day from 8 am this morning through the entirety of the storm

· For the safety of the public and first responders we urge people to stay off of the roads as they will be impassable. This will allow road crews to keep up with plowing and salting operations.

· Power outages are possible due to heavy snow, high winds, and downed tree limbs.

· We encourage people to make sure they have enough food and emergency supplies stocked in their home.

· This includes flashlights, batteries, battery operated radio for weather information and gasoline (for both a generator and snow blower).

· If you have a wood burning fireplace or stove make sure you have enough wood to supply heat for your home in the event of a power outage.

· If you have pets, please make sure to shelter them. Do not leave your pets outdoors.

· If you have a medical condition that requires daily medication, please make sure to obtain the necessary refills today before storm conditions worsen.

· We encourage people with health conditions to have someone clear their snow for them.

· If you are able, please check on your neighbors to ensure that the disabled, elderly, or otherwise homebound have someone assisting them.

· In terms of county departments and agencies:

o All Bergen County schools will have early dismissal at or before 1 pm today. All Bergen County schools are closed tomorrow. On Wednesday, Bergen County schools will be operating with a delayed opening, with timing to be determined.

o Today, the county Meals on Wheels program delivered a week worth of meals to those who receive meals through County Human Services

o Shelter and warming centers will be provided at Bergen Community College which is located at 400 County Road 62 in Paramus and at the Law and Public Safety Institute which is located at 281 Campgaw Road in Mahwah.

· Sheriff’s officers will provide transportation for medical personnel needing assistance in getting to local hospitals.

· We have been and will continue to be in contact with our State and Local partners throughout the duration of this event.

Director Dressler:

· The County works jointly with our 70 municipalities for snow removal operations.

· At the height of the storm, we will have more than 300 plows and heavy equipment deployed throughout the county removing snow, with operators working in 12 hour shifts over the next three days.

· This includes 237 units operated by the municipalities, 49 contracted snow removal units ready to deploy within sixty minutes of the order to do so, as well as county plows and heavy equipment

· The county supplies 2,800 tons of salt to the 70 municipalities

· Our salt shed at this facility holds 3,500 tons of salt and is filled to capacity at this point.