Starnberg sounds the alarm: winter service is facing financial challenges!

Starnberg sounds the alarm: winter service is facing financial challenges!

In the picturesque town of Starnberg, which is known for its high standard of living, those responsible are faced with a particular challenge: In the coming winter season, it will be difficult to financially manage the winter service. The city tried to save 60,000 euros, but this was met with resistance from citizens. In November 2024, 52 restricted public paths were temporarily closed, leading to a loud outcry from the population. The city then lifted the closures. Mayor Patrick Janik admitted that the city had misjudged the consequences of the restrictions and concluded that a mistake had been made. The Süddeutsche Zeitung reports that the weather has no impact on the city's budget and the pressure from residents should not be underestimated.

Planning for winter 2025 is already in full swing. A detailed analysis has shown that there are a total of 91 inner-city connections that have different levels of frequency. These connections were divided into three categories: “low”, “medium” and “high” frequency. Of the 27 paths classified as weak, 18 are not cleared and are only closed with signs, while nine are still cleared. The remaining 64 paths, which are classified as medium or strong, will in any case be cleared by the winter service. This ensures that citizens can continue to move through the city safely in the future.

Clearance and gritting obligations for residents

Winter service in Starnberg is carried out by both city employees and external service providers. The exact costs are still unclear at the moment, as the tenders are ongoing and therefore the lovingly needed funds have to be explored at a late stage. What is already important for residents to know is that they have to be considerate and make their own contribution. Given Starnberg's winter challenges, the following applies on public roads: parking is only permitted with a minimum width of three meters for clearing and gritting vehicles. Consequently, road intersections and junctions must be kept clear of vehicles.

However, the residents' responsibility goes even further: the obligation to clear and grit sidewalks in front of residential buildings is clearly defined. These obligations apply on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Sundays and public holidays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Where there is no sidewalk, a 1.20 meter wide strip at the edge of the road must be cleared and gritted. Pay attention to the materials used: While blunting substances such as sand or grit should be used, thawing agents are only permitted in exceptional cases.

Preparing for the winter challenges

Another focus is on the plantings on properties that border public paths. These must be cut into shape before the first snow falls so that the distance of 2.5 meters for plants on sidewalks and cycle paths and 4.5 meters on the road is maintained. The city is committed to informing and supporting citizens. On the city website Starnberg There is further information to help residents fulfill their obligations and thus ensure safety for everyone.

In summary, it should be noted that the city of Starnberg has a lot planned to ensure smooth winter service despite financial bottlenecks. Solving the challenges will require teamwork between the city administration and citizens so that everyone gets through the cold season well.