Oregon Public Broadcasting

The Mayor of Gresham declared a state of emergency for his city Monday. Kristian Foden-Vencil reports.

There’s so much snow and so many abandoned cars along the streets of south Gresham, that fire and emergency crews can’t drive in.

What they’re doing instead is hiking in – but only for medical emergencies.

Mayor Shane Bemis says the declaration means he can get extra snow plows and all terrain four-by-fours from Multnomah County.  He had this message for Gresham residents.

Shane Bemis: “Use 911 only for an emergency. If it’s a water pipe or the electricity is out, call PGE or the city direct. We’re trying to get people to stay off the roads.”

Bemis says he’s talked to the mayors of nearby cities like Troutdale, Fair View and Wood Village, who told him they’re also thinking about declaring emergencies.