Well, I am fully aware of freezing and thawing in winter, snowfall was just one example of how Utah is not as unique re: weather as some may think. And as for the commute, there were cars sliding all over the road. Salt and sand would definitely help that situation since the salt would help melt the ice and the sand would provide traction.

I still think it is reasonable to expect safe driving conditions from the city. It just comes down to the fact that I have been disappointed with the treatment of winter roads thus far in comparison to other wintery locations that I have lived in.