The Camden County Board of Commissioners has restarted the snow removal program to assist elderly and disabled citizens during the winter months.
After a year-long hiatus due to the pandemic, the commissioners felt the practice could resume safely.
“The halt was COVID related,” said Commissioner Jonathon Young, who is currently leading the program. “There was no way we could put all of these people in a van and drive them out. We were just following guidelines.”
The conditions for help are a snow accumulation of more than 4 inches, and residents must reach out to their emergency management helplines to qualify.
“Anyone over the age of 64, as well as those that are shut in with disabilities, can get some help,” Young noted. “That was the purpose of this: Help those folks out that aren’t able to themselves.”
Feedback from county residents appears positive and there have been no complaints from residents on services received so far.
Plans for the program centered around creating a safe entrance in the event a resident has a medical emergency. That would allow for EMS services or family members to gain access to a house.
Young said the board has not discussed service in the event of an ice storm or wintery mix given its concerns about safety.
“If there’s an ice storm, I don’t really want my vehicles on the road,” he added. “There isn’t really talk about it. But we have had many discussions about a spring cleanup for residents. Hopefully, we can make these things work.”
While there are no expectations for snow as heavy as what’s already fallen, removal services will remain available for the rest of the winter season.
