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River Falls approves three-year tree-trimming contract for electric reliability
Summary
The Utility Advisory Board approved a three-year contract for line-clearance and tree trimming after Electric Superintendent Wayne Seiberling described two qualified bidders and explained safety, certification and notification practices; the contract includes specialized training requirements and a not-to-exceed budget discussed by the board.
The Utility Advisory Board on Jan. 26 approved a three-year tree trimming contract for electric system vegetation management after a presentation from Electric Superintendent Wayne Seiberling.
Seiberling told the board the work requires certified contractors trained in Electrical Hazard Awareness Program (EHAP) practices to safely trim near utility lines; the city received two qualified proposals from Zeeley's Tree Service (existing contractor) and New Age Tree Service of Rochester, Minnesota. He described trimming cycles (distribution areas once every three years, transmission lines on a four-year rotation) and noted that the transmission right-of-way work is more aggressive and overseen by federal reliability standards.
Seiberling said the contractor will notify affected property owners by postcard and door hanger and that the city will coordinate follow-up communications if residents do not respond. He said contractors do not use pesticides for vegetation management and that clearing methods include mechanical mowing and chipping; ash and diseased trees are handled with special precautions. Board members discussed contract oversight, measurable performance (maps, daily/weekly check-ins) and cleanup practices in tight backyard areas.
Board members discussed the contract's budget oversight; during questioning staff referenced a not-to-exceed contract figure used for planning and monitoring. The board moved, seconded and approved the resolution awarding the tree-trimming contract by voice vote.
Next steps: staff will finalize the contract, coordinate the notification program, and begin work in the designated zones per the agreed rotation schedule.
