Utilities Section
Newsletter League of Nebraska Municipalities
February 2026
Local Leaders in Action: Preparing Cities for Extreme Winter Weather Julia Merlo, Program Specialist for Marketing & Communications at the National League of Cities (NLC)
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ith a significant winter storm expected to hit many regions this weekend, local leaders are activating response plans to prepare their communities – focused on protecting people, keeping daily services moving and ensuring neighborhoods remain safe for everyone. In cities, towns and villages of every size, municipal officials are putting winter weather response plans into motion, communicating with residents and partnering with community members to bolster resilience before, during and after snowstorms. At the National League of Cities (NLC), we see every day that winter response works best when local leaders and residents work together. Planning and Coordination Before the Storm Local governments don’t wait until the first flake falls to act. In advance of forecasted storms, city leaders activate winter response plans that draw on months of preparation: public works teams pre-treat major roads, emergency managers communicate parking rules and snow ordinances and departments coordinate to ensure resources are staged where they’re needed most. These efforts are 1335 L Street Lincoln, NE 68508 (402) 476-2829 info@lonm.org
anchored in a clear priority – keeping emergency access routes passable so that ambulances, fire crews, emergency responders and transit can continue to operate safely. However, local leaders also know that municipal resources are limited. That’s why they are intentional about equipping residents with information and encouragement to support block-by-block safety while crews are responding citywide. Neighborhood Accessibility Starts With Leadership and Communication One of the core messages local leaders are emphasizing this winter is that neighborhoodlevel accessibility matters. Local leaders across the country are reminding residents that city snow crews typically focus first on primary thoroughfares. That means sidewalks, curb ramps, steps, hydrants and shared walkways may not be cleared immediately, even though residents need them to access transit, work, school and essential services. Local leaders are sharing guidance early and often: • Remind residents of snow ordinances and sidewalk clearing responsibilities to
improve predictability. Communicate parking restrictions so plow drivers can do their jobs efficiently. • Encourage early shoveling and treatment of high-traffic pedestrian areas to reduce icy conditions and prevent injuries. By proactively engaging residents in the response conversation, local leaders can ensure that everyone understands how municipal efforts and community action combine to keep people safe and connected. Preventing Injuries Through Shared Responsibility Public safety is a top priority during winter weather events, and small actions can make a big difference. Local emergency responders emphasize that prevention starts with awareness – knowing your city’s winter rules, clearing snow before it turns to ice and treating walkways with salt or sand. When Continued on page 2 •
Lash Chaffin Utilities Section Director Jackson Sash Utilities Field Representative