Select Board seeks coordinated removal of large roadside tree on Route 12 with District 6 and utility
Summary
A large roadside tree overhanging Vermont Route 12, blamed for winter power outages and downed branches, was discussed. The board asked the manager to coordinate with District 6 and Northfield Electric on a three‑way cost split and to expedite removal before winter.
Select Board members discussed a large multi-stem tree on Vermont Route 12 that has repeatedly caused downed branches and power outages. The property owner favored having the offending branches removed, and town staff said District 6 (the state highway district) and the electric department would need to be involved because the tree growth encroaches on a state highway and power lines.
The manager reported that a quote to remove the problematic stems was approximately $4,500 and suggested the historical arrangement of splitting similar costs three ways — town highway, electric department and property owner — might apply. Board members asked the manager to coordinate with District 6 and Northfield Electric so the work could proceed and the property owner would not be left waiting for years.
The discussion noted limits: the town does not normally remove non-hazard nuisance trees on private property, but maintaining clear lines for electric reliability and highway safety is part of town responsibilities. The board did not vote but asked staff to follow up and notify the homeowner about the plan and schedule.
