One major challenge for the residents of Seattle was driven by the numerous breakdowns in communication between Metro and the Seattle Department of Transportation.

It appears that neither the transportation department nor Metro leadership knew what was actually occurring on the streets, i.e. whether they were being plowed or cleared or how the buses were functioning.

Citizens testified that the roads that the transportation department leadership thought were plowed were not. We heard that Metro's "on-line route status updates" on their adverse weather page were incorrect. Metro could not be relied upon for correct information. In many cases drivers and passengers were left to fend for themselves. 

The city council and the county council are demanding a clear plan for coordination and improvement from both departments. Metro is dependent upon several city departments including the Seattle Police Department to make sure the roads are cleared and safe.

My impression is that the city's Human Services Department did a good job sheltering and feeding people during this time. Shelters were crowded but no one was turned away. City Light performed better this time than two years ago following the December wind storm.

There is a major role for the public and the news media such as the local blogs in providing real time information during emergencies. The city should engage the public and use information coming from the neighborhoods.

Most private property owners, whether residential or commercial, did not clear the sidewalks in front of their properties which they are required to do. This failure on the public's part compounded the difficulty in getting around. Every property owner should have a snow shovel, even if it is needed only once every 10 years. If someone is too frail to shovel his or her sidewalk then able-bodied neighbors should help without being asked. We must engage the public during these times.

An "after action review" by city departments is planned. Because we have received inconsistent and incorrect information from the Mayor and the Department of Transportation, I am advocating that a neutral third party should review what happened and report back to the council.