7/1/14 - After learning about the removal of trees as part of a reconstruction project, some residents are hoping the Village of Fowlerville will work to save as many as possible. To the dismay of many residents on Maple Street, workers showed up one day and started marking trees to come down. Engineers and some council members recently met with residents to discuss the project and limitations associated with replacing the water main and storm sewer system. The close proximity of utilities and having the contractor work around some trees could result in hefty costs and some residents said while they understood the need to remove them, they also want them replaced. Dorothy Hanna told WHMI she has a beautiful locust tree thatâs been around a long time and if the cost isnât exorbitant, the Village should at least make an effort to try and work around the trees. She says there was never interaction with anyone on the street and added Fowlerville is infamous for tearing down trees and not replacing them as a matter of convenience during road projects, and has the least amount of trees compared to other communities. Randy Glass has lived in his home for more than 20 years, shaded by a large canopy two mature crimson king trees in the front yard but because theyâre located in the right of way, the trees are technically property of the Village. He feels removing the trees would impact the beauty of the street, and also lead to rising utility bills since his home would be in full sun until late in the day. Glass told WHMI he feels their concerns have been taken more seriously recently and after last nightâs meeting, Council appears to be making some positive considerations toward that end. With the exception of member Jerry Bell being absent and President Wayne Copeland not in favor, Council voted Monday to hire an arborist to examine the trees and their likelihood of being saved but also to replace them on a 2-to-1 basis at the Villageâs expense. Copeland cited the potential cost of working around the trees and how long that could push back the completion date since the contract has already been awarded for the project. He also noted that the incentive clause for early completion that Council approved. A change order would likely have to be approved by Council and an estimate is expected to be provided by the contractor after the arborist examines and identifies what trees could potentially be saved. (JM)
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