Despite the fact that staff, Council and the public have a clear interest in improving winter walkability in the City of St. John’s, staff are unable to recommend further investment in this service at this time, given the serious financial situation the City finds itself in at the end of the 2020 fiscal year. The minimal cost option to produce a noticeable difference to residents is 700k per year which is not budgeted. Given anticipated budget challenges going into 2021, enhancing the level of service for sidewalks is not recommended. Instead, staff recommend that Council commit to maintain the status quo for the 2020-21 winter season and consider future investments as part of the 2021 budget development process.