I had to take a moment and thank Woodbridge town officials for the work that was done associated with this most recent snowstorm.
I work in operations and development at a nearby hospital. Shutting down or not providing service is simply not an option in my business. It made me feel good to know that the Town of Woodbridge seems to feel the same way about operations of our town.
Friday night my family cheered every time that we saw a plow make its way down our road. We were excited to see the crews working so hard to keep streets passable in case of emergency. Those flashing lights and trucks passing by meant so much to my wife who was home with our 16-month-old twins.
There is nothing more terrifying than the thought of not being able to receive emergency help when it is needed, and not until 16 months ago did we truly understand that.
On Saturday morning I cleared my driveway. It took me four hours with the use of a very good snowblower. At about 10 a.m. I saw the plows making their way down our road. I was pleased to see the strategy being used. It appeared that a private contractor in a smaller truck had his plow blade set about a foot off the ground and was leading the charge. The larger town plow was right behind him with his blade right on the road clearing what was left and then dropping the salt and sand combination behind him. Both drivers gave a thumbs up and wave as they passed me. I was pumping my fist triumphantly at them. It was like watching the cavalry come through when you needed to see them most. In addition to having a well thought out plan of action, there was wonderful communication.
Twice a day, as we have experienced during all adverse events, we received phone calls with updates on progress that had been made since the last call, plans for the upcoming hours of work and a time to expect the next update. This type of communication and transparency is the result of a well implemented, comprehensive process to serve the Town of Woodbridge.
I have recounted this story time and time again, while others have had nothing but stories of hardship they were suffering in other cities and towns. I have expressed to many others, how happy I am with the planning, foresight and strategy used by my town leaders in dealing with this unprecedented event. I sincerely hope that you will share my thanks with all of those involved with the coordination of service on your staff. Please know that you have some very happy voters and taxpayers living in the Town of Woodbridge. Thank you!
Paul Mortensen
Woodbridge