Snow budget increased to $500,000

By Michele Morgan Bolton, Town Correspondent

As expected, selectmen have had to approve an additional $200,000 for snow removal costs after a series of drawn-out storms in recent weeks drained the town's initial storm budget.

This brings the dollar figure designated so far for plowing, salt, and sanding efforts to $500,000, almost half of what the town spent last year.

Even though Dedham's Department of Public Works has run through its initial budget, officials have nothing but praise for its chief, Joe Flanagan, and his efforts to keep costs down while ensuring that roads are clear and passable.

In particular, Selectman Jim MacDonald has said, is Flanagan's focus on using town resources first, before calling in expensive outside vendors.

Michele Morgan Bolton can be reached at mmbolton1@verizon.net.