Alderman/mayoral candidate calls Milwaukee snow cleanup efforts 'unacceptable,' residents 'irate'

MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee Alderman Tony Zielinski, who is also running for mayor, issued a statement Monday, Feb. 18 criticizing the City of Milwaukee's Department of Public Works and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett for "this winter's poorly handled and glacial snow plowing and removal," something the alderman called "not only irresponsible, but inexcusable."

DPW officials said they're doing all they can to combat Mother Nature.

Below is Zielinski's statement, issued Monday morning:

Alderman Zielinski spoke about it with FOX6 News on camera later Monday.

"The calls that I've got are that the streets haven't been plowed," said Zielinski. "'Why won't they come down my street? I can't get to work.'"

Tired of the complaints, the 14th District alderman took to Facebook, demanding more plows and workers, before another storm moves in.

"It's unacceptable. I've received a number of complaints from constituents that are very irate over the lack of adequate snow plowing on the part of the city," said Zielinski.

DPW officials issued this statement:

"I absolutely think (the city should be doing more), especially if they know in advance that there is going to be a lot of snow coming," said Gabrielle Sculiga, Milwaukee resident.

"I would agree. They've been a little behind from what they normally are," said a resident.

Residents said they were also concerned about potholes, with patchwork on hold while DPW crews complete snow cleanup efforts.

"The only thing that would fix the road situation right now is if we hire additional personnel," said Zielinski.