Public Works reports intensive winter operations, salt shortage and equipment strain

County public‑works leaders told the Fiscal Court that road crews and EMS have worked extended hours to respond to a rapid freeze that left many roads iced over.

"We got 1 load of salt yesterday which is 25 tons," a public‑works representative said, adding that the county had to source salt from Kansas because regular suppliers were exhausted. Officials described the freeze as unusual — light rain over existing snow that then froze — producing a surface layer of hard ice that plows can struggle to penetrate. Several members thanked crews and first responders for sustained operations and cautioned residents about pothole damage and vehicle wear that will follow the event.

The court discussed operational challenges such as blade and chain wear on plow equipment and uneven clearing across different roads; officials said more road repairs are likely as the weather moderates.