Resident raises sightline concerns about utility poles; council tables stormwater repair bill

A resident told the Bridgeton City Council on Oct. 16 that newly installed composite utility poles in a Phase 2 neighborhood are angled in a way that she said blocks “3 to 4 feet of view” when she pulls out of her driveway, presenting a safety concern for pedestrians and drivers.

The resident said she had previously called Spectrum and had been told pole work proceeds in order by the companies on a pole, and that removal of older poles is not always required. She asked who in the city can help coordinate with multiple utility companies to address the obstruction. The mayor said he and two council members and the public works director would take the resident’s phone number and follow up.

Separately, Council read Bill 64-62, an ordinance authorizing stormwater repairs at 11676 Mark Twain Lane in an amount not to exceed $100,000. Council member Luke moved to table the bill; the motion was seconded and the council voted to table Bill 64-62 during the Oct. 16 meeting. The transcript does not record further detail about the reasons for tabling or the funding source for the repairs.

Public Works clarified on the record that poles in question are located in right-of-way utility easements and that the city has limited ability to compel private utilities to remove poles, but staff said they would work with the city attorney to develop an approach.

The record does not list a follow-up date for the pole issue or a timetable for the stormwater repairs ordinance; both matters appear to require staff follow-up and coordination with private utilities or additional council action.