The township has agreed once again to provide winter maintenance on a portion of a county road in the township. However, council has asked staff to investigate associated liability risks.
At the Nov. 12 Mapleton council meeting, public works director Larry Lynch reported the county requested the township carry out winter operations (plowing, sanding and routine patrolling) on Wellington Road 45 through the Village of Glen Allan. Lynch noted the township has handled the task for a number of years.
“We are once again requested to carry out the same duties in 2013/2014 at a compensation rate of $5,800/km,” Lynch stated in his report. “The period of maintenance would run from Nov. 15, 2013 up to and including April 8, 2014. The compensation amount takes into account the estimated cost of equipment; time to carry out winter operations, fuel, maintenance and so on.”
The report estimates the township will receive $44,080 for maintaining the 7.6km stretch of road. Lynch provided a summary of costs over the past six years, indicating compensation from the county has risen to its current level from $3,000/km and a total of $22,800 in 2007-08.
“With a contract on this, do we assume liability for these roads?” asked councillor Mike Downey.
“I don’t believe we do,” responded Lynch, noting the township contracts out maintenance of some municipal roads, but retains liability.
Mayor Bruce Whale noted the township would be required to ensure the roads are maintained to standards.
“If there’s an accident on one of these roads. Do we have the documentation to back up our services?” Downey asked.
“I would say at this point probably not,” replied Lynch.
Whale said, “It’s a good point. Let’s clarify it with the county.”
Lynch agreed to question county operations manager Paul Johnston on the subject of liability.
Council approved the report and agreed to accept the maintenance contract at the offered level of compensation.
