Once again, nonresident property owners have let down their Lewes neighbors, endangered their safety and flouted the law. This is an exact repeat of last January’s snowstorm debacle when sidewalks remained uncleared and impassable for weeks.
Further, these property owners are flouting the law per this city ordinance: 302.3.1 Sidewalks and walkways.
Sidewalks and walkways shall be clear of snow and ice within 24 hours after the end of the snowfall/ice event and shall be kept clear of debris from lawn maintenance. Lawn debris shall not be placed in the street.
And most recently: To protect pedestrian safety and maintain accessibility, all sidewalks must be cleared no later than Thursday, Jan. 29.
Question: What is the city’s enforcement protocol for this ordinance?
If you are fortunate to own a second home in Lewes, you have the means to ensure that your property is maintained and cared for in your absence. That includes snow removal. If nonresident owners have a rental agency in place for summer rentals, it should be the responsibility of that agency to adhere to all city laws on their client's behalf, including snow removal.
Alas, it is Jan. 31, and plenty of Lewes sidewalks remain snowy and icy. In the event of a serious accident on one of these sidewalks, or in the street as pedestrians are forced to avoid icy sidewalks, one would think both the property owner and city are liable as there appears to be no enforcement of the above ordinance.
If this weekend’s original weather forecast had materialized, Lewes could have received another 3 to 8 inches of snow. That on top of already-icy sidewalks would have made walking truly treacherous.
Lewes is a delightfully walkable town. Let’s keep it that way in all seasons.
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