Mayor Gray urges caution during snow, cold

DEM Blogger

February 15, 2015

As the city prepares for the bitter cold weather and snow forecast for this week, Mayor Jim Gray today asked citizens to watch out for their neighbors, particularly the elderly and people who live alone or those with special needs, and for pets.

“We have an opportunity today to think intentionally and deliberately and plan for next week,” Gray said. “This city is prepared to help citizens in need. And our many citizens do an outstanding job of caring for neighbors and friends who are alone, as well as making sure pets are inside and warm.”

The National Weather Service encourages people has advised people who don’t have to travel Monday to stay home.
Street crews will start work at midnight tonight and will continue working on 12-hour shifts, as needed. “We’ve got plenty of salt, but drivers should proceed with caution. Salt is not as effective in bitter cold temperatures,” said Albert Miller, Director of the Division of Streets and Roads.

Police Chief Mark Barnard said he is bringing in extra crews tomorrow and will have units available to transport hospital and emergency personnel if needed, to work with people who are at risk such as those who are homeless and to address traffic concerns, including covering the interstates. Commanders are reaching out to neighborhood associations to identify people in need. In addition, officers are working with the Hispanic community to ensure emergency information is available to all citizens.

Major Bill Saunooke said firefighters are prepared to call in extra crews if needed. They are urging caution with space heaters and extension cords. Camp grills and stoves should not be used inside. Make sure your smoke and CO detectors are working.


Shelters for the homeless are in place and alerts have been distributed widely within the community and press, Gray said.

Charlie Lanter, Director of the Office of Homelessness Prevention, said the City has activated its Emergency Weather Plan for shelters. “Lexington has a strong network of shelters and service providers for people who need a place to keep warm from the snow and ice,” Lanter said. Shelters open 24 hours include Salvation Army, Hope Center, Arbor Youth Services and Catholic Action Center. There are also warming shelters open during the day.