La Niña conditions are expected to bring more snow, rain and freezing temperatures than usual this winter, and crews in Lynnwood are getting ready for it.

Despite the $21 million shortfall, the city is budgeting an additional $50,ooo for snow and ice response over the next two years.

“We consider snow and ice response part of our critical services and have budgeted for them at similar levels to past years,” Public Works Director Bill Franz said.

Franz says they learned a lot during the snowstorms of 2008.

“We have our trucks, sanders and plows at the ready. We are stocked up on sand, deicer and other supplies. Our crews have been organized to be able to respond around the clock if necessary,” he said.

The city’s highest priority is plowing and sanding major arterials so emergency responders are able to get around. Next up are steep hills, minor arterials and neighborhood streets, in that order.

The city will also use a new reverse 911 system known as “Code Red” to keep the public updated with the latest emergency information. When the city sends out a message about an event, the system will call you with a 40 second message that contains emergency information and instructions on what to do. You can register online to be notified by phone or e-mail. Home phone numbers have already been provided by the phone company but you can register your cell phone. The system will be tested the first week of December.

“We place a high importance on winter storm readiness in Lynnwood with the prime focus being our citizens’ safety,” Franz said.