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Committee outlines plan to remove dead and leaning trees on county roads; staff cites $10,000 procurement limit
Summary
Jasper County staff reported an inspector marked dead and leaning trees along county routes (notably Highway 17 and Route 321); removal will be prioritized for safety, completed in phases under a $10,000 procurement limit, and residents were asked to photograph and report hazards.
The Jasper County Transportation Committee discussed safety concerns over dead and leaning trees along county roadways and laid out a phased removal plan.
A resident raised multiple stretches of roadway — including Highway 17 and Route 321 between Hardyville and Tilman — where many trees are dead or leaning into ditches and the right-of-way, noting past fatalities in the area. County staff said an inspector surveyed Route 321 and marked trees that are dead or at risk of falling.
Staff member Jim told the committee the county will hire a contractor to remove hazardous trees but must phase the work because individual procurements are limited to $10,000. "We cannot go over $10,000," he said, and added that using DOT-certified contractors for smaller purchase orders helps the county get crews on site faster. He warned that contractor availability is uncertain: "it might be week, it might be two weeks, it might be a month," and urged residents to submit photos and contact information for reported trees so staff can prioritize dangerous removals.
The committee said trees that are already dead or leaning into the roadway will be removed first; less-critical removals will be scheduled in later phases. Staff noted cost and contractor-travel considerations affect how quickly multiple trees at a location can be cleared.
No formal action was taken; staff said they will proceed with the phased removals, notify the committee when contractor dates are set, and continue to accept photo reports from residents.
