Report: Mild winter results in millions of dollars in savings for Ohio, local municipalities

This year's mild winter, with below-average snowfall and above-average temperatures, has resulted in Ohio and local municipalities saving millions of dollars, according to a report by the Dayton Daily News.

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Ohio has spent nearly $38 million less this year compared to last due to the higher than average temperatures, Ohio Department of Transportation spokesperson Matt Bruning told the newspaper.

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The savings to taxpayers are a combination of a reduction salt expenses and overtime pay to workers covering shifts needed to keep roads safe.

Public works departments for both Dayton and Huber Heights have reported decreases both in the amount of salt used and number of snow-related events during the year.

Data from the City of Dayton indicates 10,328 tons of salt have been used this winter. That is down from the 11,101 tons used last winter, according to the newspaper.

In Huber Heights, 16 snow-related events this winter have required the use of salt. Last winter, public works crews plowed or salted roads 38 times, according to the Dayton Daily News report.

Fewer snow and ice events have also meant less money spent on overtime for area municipalities. The City of Dayton budgeted $206,000 for overtime pay for winter operations, however only $15,000 worth of overtime hours have been charged, according to the newspaper.

Riverside officials said the city has saved over $10,000 in overtime wages due to the mild winter.