Now that we are firmly in the depths of winter, and have already experienced several minor snowfalls, it is possible that a major snowstorm could occur at any time.

While we hope this does not happen, I want our residents to be assured that here in the Town of Hempstead, our Department of Highways and Parks Department mobilize their personnel at the earliest predictions of significant snow accumulation. Prompt action is always taken in order to ensure the quick and efficient clearing of town roadways in order to make travel safer for our residents and others who must brave the cold and snowy weather.

In order to do their jobs most efficiently, highway crews must not be hampered by cars parked at curbs. Such obstacles cause snowplow drivers to weave a time-consuming, hazardous path around parked vehicles. Town of Hempstead residents can greatly help facilitate the plowing process by parking their cars in garages and/or driveways.

We would also like to suggest and request that when homeowners shovel or plow their driveways they do so by shoveling the snow to the right as they face the street. This will also aid in making snow plowing operations more efficient.

Town residents deserve and are accustomed to outstanding municipal services. Keeping the more than 1,600 miles of town highways clear of snow is a formidable task. When properly executed, however, everyone benefits. Whether to facilitate the passage of school buses, emergency vehicles, commuter traffic, or pedestrians who must reach a store for food or medicine, it is imperative that our neighborhood roadways remain passable.

While we hope that the rest of the winter remains as snow free as possible, on behalf of the members of the Town Board and all your neighbors in the Town of Hempstead, I am asking all town residents to remove their cars from the street when snow accumulations are forecast or are imminent. Your efforts to do so are vital and are greatly appreciated.