It’s a tough job, with many thanks

MT. PLEASANT — A tough week with back-to-back snowstorms kept road crews throughout the state working long, hard hours this past week, and the community noticed.

“While I love this white stuff and thankful it's not ice, our crews have been out since 5 a.m. nonstop,” Wayalnd Utility Clerk JulyAnne Stauffer shared to the Wayland Hub community Tuesday, Jan. 9 after the first round of snow hit. “After a brief break for a meal tonight they will head back out. So thankful for them and prayers for all road crews safety!”

That was just the beginning for these hardworking individuals, though, as the snow returned Thursday evening and continued into Friday.

According to Henry County Emergency Management Director Walt Jackson and Winfield Mayor Willie Bender, the combination of accumulated snow from both storms and the high winds that accompanied the second, crews had their work cut out for them.

“As quick as they went down the road, snow was covering it back up,” Jackson said.

“By the time they'd get done snow plowing it was already starting to blow shut again,” Bender commented.

Keeping public streets as clear as possible remained a priority for crews throughout the storms so emergency crews could make it through as needed.

Winfield Director of Public Works JR Herrick’s, “biggest concern was wanting to make sure we could get the big routes open,” Bender said. “Just in case there was any sort of fire or ambulance emergency that crews could to get around.”

Thankfully, by Tuesday, Jan. 16, the public could see more routes to go about their normal activities, but not without expressing their gratitude alongside local businesses, city offices, and county departments.

“We’d like to give a huge shoutout to all the snow moving heroes that have been and will continue to be working,” Henry County Sheriff’s Office posted Monday following the storms.

“Thank you city snow clearers,” Winfield Resident Rebecca Bender wrote following the second snowstorm. “You've done great with constant winds and a crazy amount of snow.”

“Thank you all for taking care of the roadways,” Owner of Settle Inn & Quilt and Mt. Pleasant Resident Martha Lynchard Settles said.

“Thank you for all of the plow operators and all that you do,” Lesa Fitzpatrick of Mt. Pleasant commented.

Local businesses like Scooters and Hy-Vee also showed their appreciation for snow removal crews with hot drinks.

According to Sara Sanderson, Scooters offered free drip coffee all day to snowplow crews for making sure “roads are getting safe.”

“We sincerely appreciate it, stay safe!” she added.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com