Imagine stepping outside after a snowy night, only to find your sidewalk buried under a thick layer of snow, forcing you to navigate icy streets just to get to work. This isn’t a rare scenario in Watertown, New York, where unshoveled sidewalks have become a growing safety hazard. In just two weeks, the city’s codes office has issued over 140 citations to property owners who failed to clear their sidewalks within the required 48 hours after a storm. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the city is cracking down, some residents argue that enforcement isn’t enough—it’s about accountability and community responsibility.
The issue took center stage at Monday’s city council meeting, where Council Member Ben Shoen passionately emphasized the importance of safe walkways. “Walking safely in the city should be a fundamental right,” Shoen stated. “This isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it’s a critical safety issue, as important as any other we face.” His words highlight a broader concern: when sidewalks remain uncleared, pedestrians are forced into dangerous situations, like dodging traffic or risking slips and falls.
One glaring example brought up during the meeting was the sidewalk in front of the former Denny’s restaurant on Arsenal Street. Residents described it as a snow-covered obstacle course, seemingly untouched since the first flakes fell. The property owner has been fined multiple times, yet the problem persists. Desiree Wilmarth, a local resident, shared her frustration: “I’ve had to walk in the street because the sidewalk is completely blocked. I’ve even been nearly hit by cars a few times. It’s terrifying.”
And this is the part most people miss: uncleared sidewalks don’t just affect pedestrians—they also impact accessibility. Shoen pointed out that snow-covered crosswalk buttons make it impossible for some individuals to safely cross streets, creating barriers for those with disabilities or mobility challenges. “There’s a civic responsibility here that some people are failing to uphold,” Shoen added. “It’s unfortunate because the city can’t constantly police every property owner.”
To address this, Shoen is encouraging citizens to take action. “If you see a sidewalk that hasn’t been cleared all winter, don’t hesitate—call the codes office and report it,” he urged. The codes department echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that while the city is doing its part to clear public areas, property owners must fulfill their legal obligation to maintain their sidewalks.
But here’s the controversial question: Is it fair to rely solely on fines and citizen reports, or should the city explore more proactive solutions, like community snow removal programs or stricter penalties? Some argue that fines alone aren’t enough to change behavior, while others believe it’s a matter of personal responsibility. What do you think? Should the city take a harder line, or is this an issue that requires a community-driven approach? Let us know in the comments—this is a conversation Watertown needs to have.
