Ashland public services leaders praise staff after snow response; department highlights cross-training

Director Murray told the commission the city’s Public Services department, reorganized about a year ago, has improved internal training, role clarity and cross-department cooperation.

Murray introduced supervisors who he said stepped up during recent storms, highlighting sanitation supervisor Aaron Prophet and mechanics supervisor Dan Wright for keeping equipment and routes operational. "I believe our biggest asset in the city is our employees," Murray said, praising staff for adaptability and initiative.

Another department speaker, Sean, described operational changes during the Jan. 24–30 snow event: crews shifted to 10-hour schedules, the central garage remained staffed around the clock, and the city arranged carpool transportation for employees who could not safely drive. He told commissioners there were no automobile accidents and no employee accidents during the event and that crews were able to collect most reachable areas.

Commissioners thanked staff for their work during the storm and asked a few operational questions about equipment sharing between departments and long-term plans to maintain readiness. The presentation was informational; commissioners voiced appreciation but did not take formal action.