October 16, 2023
To keep you informed of recent events regarding the new Windrow Clearing Pilot Program, I am providing you with details.
This pilot program supports seniors and community members living with a disability by removing driveway windrows following a snowfall.
What is a windrow?
A windrow (pictured above) is the snow left at the end of a driveway after a snowplow has cleared a road.
What exactly is meant by “Pilot Program”?
“Pilot Program” means that the program is not yet a permanent service provided by the Town of Aurora – think of it more like a trial run with Town staff using the 2023/2024 winter season to gauge the community’s interest in the service and identify any challenges.
Following the winter season, staff will report back to Town Council with the results of the pilot program. Town Council will then make a decision as to whether windrow removal will become a permanent service offered by the Town Aurora.
It is important to note that if the program does become permanent, residents many need to apply each year to receive the windrow removal service from the Town.
Who can apply?
If you are 65 years of age or older, all occupants of the household must be over 65 years of age and have no other able-bodied occupants residing at the subject property. You must show proof of age in the form of Government issued ID (birth certificate, driver’s license, or passport).
If you are under 65 years of age and all occupants of the address over the age of 12 are unable to remove snow. The applicant must provide a provincial disability permit or a note from a doctor (on doctor letterhead).
All applicants are required sign off on a waiver of liability with respect to the program.
*Driveways located on regional roads, commercial, industrial, institutional, high-rise properties, private roads, roads undergoing development and rear lanes are not included in the program.
How do I apply?
Applications are accepted in person at the Joint Operations Centre and Aurora Town Hall from October 16 to November 30, 2023.
Print and complete the application form and bring proof of age and/or proof of disability with you.
You can download and print the application at aurora.ca/Windrow or obtain one in person at the Joint Operations Centre and Aurora Town Hall.
When will windrows be cleared?
The Windrow Removal Pilot Program will begin on December 1, 2023, and run until April 1, 2024.
Windrows will be cleared of snow only after a snowfall of at least 8 cm.
Windrow snow removal will also only take place after the Town has cleared primary and secondary roads of snow.
What does the service entail?
Residents should also be aware that the Town will remove windrows for the width of one car (approximately 3 metres).
Snow will not be cleared from the sidewalk windrow, residential pathways, entire driveways or removed from the property.
The Town will not be salting the driveway after the windrow is cleared.
How long will it take for the Town to get to my house?
The Town aims to remove all windrows of those participating in the program within 24 hours after the end of a snowfall. This is only an estimate, and will of course depend on weather conditions and Town resources.
Our program strives to deliver this service in a timely manner. However, sometimes unforeseen weather and other circumstances can arise. If you frequently leave your home, consider making other arrangements to have your windrow cleared.
My windrow wasn’t cleared! Why not?
In order for windrows to be cleared, driveways must not be blocked and garbage containers must be placed on the right side of the boulevard.
If you believe your driveway was accessible and 24 hours have passed since the end of a snowfall, kindly send a note to windrows@aurora.ca to inform us.
More Information:
Aurora.ca/Windrow
Windrows@aurora.ca
Tonight, Monday, October 16th, the Ward 1 Committee hold its October meeting at Town Hall at 7:00 pm we will discuss the Ward 1 representation. If you would like to learn more about this Committee, please reply and I will send you information on how to join or receive updates. We will also be discussing how Ratepayer Associations are formed, for those of you who would like to form an Association in your neighbourhood.
As always, feel free to share this with neighbours and ask them to consider joining the mailing list at www.ronweese.ca so you don’t have to send this to them!
Truly,
Ron Weese, Councillor, Ward 1