Canton Selectmen To Review Sidewalk Enforcement After Snowstorm Concerns

CANTON, CT — In the days following the large snowstorm on Jan. 25 that dumped more than a foot and a half of snow on Canton, local leaders said many issues cropped up.

At their last meeting Feb. 11, the Canton Board of Selectmen signaled it will review the town’s sidewalk policy this summer following concerns about snow removal and public safety.

During board remarks, Selectman Sarah Faulkner thanked the Canton Department of Public Works for “doing a great job with the snow.”

Selectman Elizabeth Winsor raised concerns about commercial sidewalks remaining uncleared 10 days after a recent storm and said enforcement is needed.

She also relayed that Canton Fire Chief Jonathan Gotaski had identified a need for assistance clearing fire hydrants and asked whether that requirement could be incorporated into the town’s sidewalk ordinance.

Faulkner said residents have been walking along Route 44 due to uncleared sidewalks, calling it a public safety issue.

She noted the town already has a fine structure in place to enforce local rules on snow removal.

Canton First Selectman Kevin Witkos said the board will review the sidewalk policy over the summer.

He added that the building official has faced obstacles in carrying out enforcement responsibilities that need to be addressed.

Witkos also suggested creating a program for residents to “adopt a fire hydrant” to help keep them clear after storms.

No formal action was taken on the matter.

For the minutes of the Feb. 11 Canton Board of Selectmen meeting, click on this link.