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Skowhegan hires Belanger Tree Care to remove three trees above wastewater plant generator
Summary
Select Board authorized $4,200 for Belanger Tree Care to remove three large pines overhanging the water pollution control plant's backup generator, citing catastrophic-failure risk and the need to clear defensible space. Funding will come from the capital reserve account for building maintenance.
The Skowhegan Select Board voted 5-0 on Oct. 28 to authorize Belanger Tree Care to remove three trees at the water pollution control plant after an arborist identified the trees as posing a catastrophic risk to town infrastructure.
Donnie presented the request, saying the trees overhang the plant’s three-phase service and backup generator. "Some of these trees are so big, it's, like, catastrophic," he told the board, arguing for removal to prevent a storm-driven power outage that could impact treatment operations. Donnie described the project as the first phase of clearing a fence line and opening access to allow maintenance and a secondary access route to the beach area.
The town procured three quotes: Zulke Tree Service for $11,900, Bergeron Tree Service for $5,500, and Belanger Tree Care for $4,200. After discussion, the board approved an amended motion to award the work to Belanger Tree Care for $4,200. The cost will be paid from the capital reserve account for building maintenance and improvements, which the board reported as having a current balance of $47,545.
Donnie said removing the trees will also open an old road and trail access, allow the town to obtain defensible space, and improve emergency access. The board noted one positive reuse outcome: the Somerset Woodbank will receive one of the trees for community heating resources. The motion passed 5-0.
