To the editor:

Winter arrived early in Lake Placid this year, settling in by early November and showing little sign of letting up. For skiers and outdoor enthusiasts, the early snow has been a gift, with ski centers opening ahead of schedule and trails reaching mid-winter conditions weeks sooner than usual. For village staff, however, the season has meant stepping into winter mode far earlier than expected.

We want to take a moment to recognize the dedicated work of Lake Placid’s village employees and volunteers — particularly the small but mighty crew in the Department of Public Works (DPW), supported by colleagues at the Electric Department and Water Department. Their efforts often happen quietly and out of sight, but they are essential to keeping our community safe and functioning year-round.

Both summer and winter are busy seasons for DPW crews, who manage road and sidewalk maintenance, repairs, cleaning, and snow removal. Fall typically provides a short breather — a chance for staff to take well-earned time off and enjoy hunting season. This year was different. November felt more like January, with frequent snowfall and storms, including over the Thanksgiving holiday. Planned vacations were postponed, and time with family was sacrificed so roads and sidewalks could remain clear and safe.

While Dec. 21 marked the official start of winter, DPW crews have been operating in full winter conditions for nearly two months. And staff from the Electric and Water Departments have also been supporting clean-up efforts when the snow has piled up.

We also extend our thanks to everyone involved in last week’s storm response. Winds exceeding 60 miles per hour brought down trees, branches, and power lines across the village and town of North Elba. Crews from the Lake Placid Electric Department, the Lake Placid Volunteer Fire Department, Lake Placid Police Department, Lake Placid Volunteer Ambulance Service and the Department of Public Works worked tirelessly to support the community, restore power and clear debris. They were supported by neighboring crews from the town of North Elba, Massena, Tupper Lake, and Plattsburgh — a strong example of regional cooperation at its best.

As snow returned quickly after the storm, DPW crews were back out in their trucks, keeping roads and sidewalks clear once again. If you see village or town employees at work this winter, a wave or a simple “thank you” goes a long way. Their commitment helps keep Lake Placid moving — no matter what the weather brings.

Lake Placid Mayor Art Devlin and members of the Village of Lake Placid Board of Trustees — Jackie Kelly, Marc Galvin, Andrew Quinn and Katie Brennan