With a flurry of harsh weather this past winter mostly in the rear-view mirror, a Collingwood councillor will ask on Monday for a staff report on ways to help Collingwood’s snow removal companies be better equipped next year.
As part of council’s regular meeting on March 17, councillors will consider a motion put forward by Coun. Chris Potts asking for a staff report on possibly changing the town’s bylaws to allow utility terrain vehicles (UTV) on public roads for snow removal purposes.
“I’ve had a number of small businesses contact me that want to expand their services,” Potts told CollingwoodToday. “They maybe have UTVs already for things they already do, and they want to expand their services.”
“Given the recent snow events we’ve had – these vehicles are versatile. With one vehicle, you can cover three or four different tasks,” he said.
UTVs, differ from all-terrain vehicles (ATV) as they are intended for work purposes. UTVs can be outfitted with various attachments, including snow plows, sanders or salters, and they handle more like a car than an ATV.
Under the Highway Traffic Act, UTVs are not permitted on roadways or highways unless otherwise approved through a municipal bylaw. In Collingwood, such a bylaw does not yet exist.
“I’d like to be able to help (businesses) grow when it comes to technology and snow removal,” said Potts.
Council’s regular meeting will take place on Monday, March 17 starting at 2 p.m. To access the entire agenda for the meeting, click here.
Any members of the public may attend in person in council chambers at Collingwood town hall, or virtually by Zoom webinar. The meeting will also be livestreamed on the town’s YouTube channel here.