I agree with the letter written by Jan Hamilton concerning the clearing of sidewalks after a snow storm. I walk about three miles every day, and it is very difficult after a snow storm to walk because hardly any businesses adhere to the law and clear their sidewalks. You have to many times walk in the street, and that is taking your life in your hands because most motorists now have no regard for pedestrians.
I have talked to some of the businesses that have not cleared their sidewalks, and I get responses all the way from, "That is not our responsibility, that is up to the city," to looks that indicate, "Who is this stupid person who wants us to do this thing that we have not the least intention of doing?"
We have the regulation on the books but no one is doing anything to enforce it. There are still places on the sidewalks that are not passable after over a week from the storm. That to me is inexcusable.
At one time the pedestrian in Carson City had some rights, but I am seeing less and less as the cars take over and no one enforces the rights of the pedestrians. As a daily walker, I see how little respect we get as a pedestrian.
I think that after the next snow storm we need to press the city into enforcing their regulations. A complaint should trigger some enforcement. If anyone who has a problem with uncleared sidewalks will make a complaint to the city manager's office, I think that we will see some needed enforcement take place.
If not, then some action against property owners who do not clear their sidewalks and maybe against the city for not enforcing their ordinance might be in order. I am starting to get a little tired of having such a hard time trying to walk after a snow storm as I am walking for my health. I can really appreciate the much more serious problems of the person with the white cane and guide dog.
JACK M. FRALINGER
Carson City
