NEW ULM — Brown County commissioners will consider approving a Brown County Highway Department updated snow removal policy Tuesday.

The current snow removal policy was approved March 21, 1995. Snow removal and salt/sand use were discussed at previous county board meetings. An amended snow removal policy with suggested changes was reviewed and discussed at a highway committee meeting. It was agreed to bring the policy to the county board for discussion.

Policy changes include possibly extending snow removal equipment operation into the early evening instead of mid-afternoon, depending on the snow storm.

The objective is to remove snow so roads are passable and clear of snow drifts within 24 hours of a snowfall instead of within 48 hours as the current policy reads. Secondary (snow) cleanup will be done within 48 hours of the end of a storm event.

Under the new policy, salt and sand may not be used in snow removal if it leads to snow buildup when applied to roads.

Commissioners will receive a report from Minnesota Rural Counties (MRC) Administrative Services Lead Anne Kilzer and Lead Lobbyist Britta Torkelson of Capitol Hills Associates, Inc. of St. Paul. CHA team members share a similar approach and method to lobbying Minnesota state government, taking a long-term view while representing and communicating client’s interests, maintaining significant, positive relationships with both sides of the aisle, according to the board request.

Commissioners will consider becoming MRC members in 2024. Dues are $2,200 to $2,900 annually based on county population.

The board meeting starts at 9 a.m. in the courthouse commissioner’s room.