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Some business owners push back against snowy sidewalk fines in Monongahela

MONONGAHELA, Pa. — Keeping the sidewalks clear of snow sleet and ice in Monongahela is a big priority for the city and for those who use the sidewalks, but some business owners think a hefty fine for failing to do that is a little exorbitant.

Others like Karen Geraci, say the sidewalks need to be a major priority. “Today’s my first day out since Saturday. It’s hard when you’re stuck in the house,” Geraci said.

And for Brian Delso, who uses a wheelchair, it’s been especially difficult. “Some of these people have their sidewalks clear and some don’t. I can’t even get across the street to the McDonald’s.”

And Brian also tells us another person he knows who uses a wheelchair has had a particularly difficult time.

“I know somebody that had to use their own personal salt on the sidewalks because they’re too hard, too hard to get their chair through.”

This is why the city says they recently reminded businesses to make sure their store fronts are safe. Something Business owner Laura Usher says she’s happy to do but thinks a $600 fine is a little unfair. “You know, we’re bringing people into the town, the least you could do is help us.”

And Laura says that help would come in the form of the city taking care of the snow after it’s shoveled from in front of her business, so it doesn’t pile up near the curb where people park.

“I’d like them to give us a better place to put our snow so when our handicap customers get out they are able to get out of their car without slipping and falling and I don’t have to chip through the ice to get a place for them to come in. Because a lot of my guys are veterans, and they don’t deserve that. "

The Director of Public Safety told us over the phone today that the city is not trying to discourage anyone but just to keep everyone safe. She also told us that any business failing to clear their sidewalks will get a warning before being fined.

The city says any sleet snow or ice that forms or has fallen must be removed within eight hours after, and if sleet has formed after 6 p.m. in any evening, it may be removed at any time before 6 p.m. in the evening the following day.