Highway Commissioner Reports Surge in Winter Salt Usage

Jackson Township Board Meeting | December 10, 2025

Article Summary: Highway Commissioner Walsh reported that Jackson Township has already surpassed the total salt usage of the entire previous year due to early winter weather. The Road District has ordered additional supplies and is awaiting the delivery of a new vehicle.

Road District Key Points:

• Salt Consumption: The district has used 120 tons of salt so far this season, exceeding the total amount used during the entire previous year.

• Supply Restocking: An additional 180 tons of salt have been ordered to ensure road safety.

• New Equipment: A new 6-wheeler truck is currently being built in Kankakee, with delivery expected early next year.

ELWOOD — Early winter weather has taken a toll on Jackson Township’s road maintenance supplies, with salt usage already exceeding last year’s total, officials reported on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

Highway Commissioner Walsh updated the Township Board on the status of road operations, noting that crews have already applied 120 tons of salt. Walsh emphasized the severity of the start to the season by noting that the township has “already gone through more this year than they did all of last year.”

To maintain safe driving conditions, the Road District has ordered an additional 180 tons of salt.

Walsh also provided an update on the district’s fleet. He confirmed that a new 6-wheeler is currently under construction in Kankakee. He expressed hope that the new vehicle will be ready for delivery early next year to assist with district operations.