I have heard that the reason our streets are lined with HALF TREES is becasue our city has signed a 100 year contract with a tree triming company that cuts our trees in ridiculous shapes to allow for the high wires. The way they currently being trimmed makes us all look like we don't know what is right. It demonstrates our apathy of the town, in my opinion. If we don't want to take the time to make our trees look right we should cut down the trees which are close to the road and replant trees in another area more sensible to our needs and wants.

Agreed!

I don't understand, in this area of ice storms and plentiful storm damage (and power outages that have cost us hundreds of dollars in lost food in the last few years) why we don't have underground power. And complete trees. And replanting of the same (mature) size and type, when an old tree dies. In most neighborhoods, the grand old sugar maples you see now are the last of their kind, and when they go, they must be replaced with small-size trees, often maturing at half or less than half the maples' heights. Tall houses, short trees. That's as silly as the half-trees! They just redid Broad Street, north of Losey. Why didn't they put the power in the street, then? --diana

This has been a long standing battle of mine and others in town. Half-trees are ridiculous looking, uncivilized, and a humiliation to the tree. The city goes along with it because of AmerenIP. As I understand it, they give the city some breaks on heating and cooling. In return, we give them free reign over our trees. They say it is to help us, so we don't lose service. I say it is for them to increase their profit. They are allowed to cut into your property 10-15 ft., no one ever seems to know. They recently ruined my tree out front. I'm at 1614 N. Seminary, although it is not as bad as some. I intervened, but to no avail. They do what they want.
We may bring this up as an issue for neighborhoods. You are welcome to attend. The next meeting is Nov. 17, 6p.m., at the public library.
Bruce Weik

I'll try to be there. I also sent a letter to the Register-Mail Editor to try to spark some interest here. It's a great start to a series of issues to address to get our town back on the right course instead of going down the drain. :>)

I might make a list and take pictures or a movie and post it on YouTube about the half trees lining our streets. There are 2 HUGE trees on Bateman or Willard that were cut in half transversely so there are just 2 HUGE ~15 ft tall "stumps". It is ridiculous/hilarious that we all tolerate it.

A video would be an excellent idea. Hope to see you the 17th.

Rosemwebb,
Did you make your video? It was a good idea. I would be anxious to see if you did?