FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CLIFTON, NJ — Winter storms demand coordinated planning, dependable equipment, and clear communication. When snow and ice affect neighborhood streets, residents need confidence that emergency access and essential services remain priorities.
City Council candidate Tafari Anderson is proposing a Winter Storm Readiness and Performance Plan to strengthen Clifton’s preparedness and public accountability.
“Residents should know what to expect before a storm arrives, how the city prioritizes road clearing, and where they can obtain reliable updates,” Anderson stated.
Anderson recommends reviewing the city’s existing winter procedures and establishing clear service priorities for emergency routes, major intersections, school approaches, and residential streets.
His proposal also includes pre-storm equipment inspections, documented contractor availability, coordinated parking notifications, and public updates when garbage collection or other municipal services are disrupted.
Nearby municipalities provide examples of practical cooperation. Passaic County and Pompton Lakes have an agreement to exchange snow-removal responsibilities on designated public roadways.
County records also identify snow-equipment cooperation involving Prospect Park and Elmwood Park, along with municipal plowing arrangements involving Wanaque and Bloomingdale.
Anderson believes Clifton should evaluate whether similar agreements could strengthen emergency response without compromising its existing obligations.
“Preparedness should not depend on last-minute improvisation,” Anderson added. “Government must identify potential weaknesses, establish responsibilities, and make improvements before residents face the next major storm.”
He recommends a public pre-winter readiness presentation and a post-storm review identifying lessons learned, service concerns, and corrective actions.
The goal, Anderson emphasized, is dependable service, responsible planning, and safer neighborhoods.
Paid for by Friends for Tafari Anderson.