Slick roads conditions can be a battle this time of year and after Old Man Winter dropped about 10 inches of snow earlier this month, Warren city leaders are now looking at how they can improve their snow plowing process. 

"If they turn that income tax down, we are in a world of hurt," said Councilman John Brown.

Brown expressed concerns that an income tax recently approved by the voters to help maintain roads and safety services was passed, but can just as easily be taken away.

"There are no excuses, and I don't think anyone here is looking to make excuses," said safety-service director Enzo Cantalamessa.

Among the issues plow drivers face ar manpower and aging equipment said operations superintendent Frank Tempesta.

"It would be ideal if we could maybe get into a program where we get two new trucks a year for maybe three years," said Tempesta

Discussions during the meeting covered everything from the challenges of training drivers to the cost of equipment.

"There are grants out there. Why aren't we applying for them?" asked Councilman Larry Larson.

Tempesta said the plow trucks can cost about $157,000 each.

It was also noted during the meeting that when Tempesta started with the city the department had 60 employees. The department now operates with 23 employees and that includes office personnel.

The mayor said the administration is in the process of developing a policy for snow removal and ice control.

In the meantime, he plans for the city to use more salt during snow events.

The city currently has 500 tons of salt with more set to be delivered. City officials say they are not concerned about running out this season.