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Residents press Selectboard on dangerous intersection and aggressive utility tree clearing
Summary
A resident urged a convex mirror at a steep visibility corner; other residents reported Eversource contractors cut or damaged healthy trees and moved into private woods, citing limited notification and possible wetland concerns; the board advised documenting damage and contacting the utility and town staff for follow‑up.
During public comment at the New Ipswich Selectboard meeting, resident Stephanie Fzone (who gave her full name and address) urged the board to install a convex mirror at a steep, low‑visibility corner near Kenny Court where drivers must pull into the lane to see oncoming traffic. She described safety concerns, especially in winter and with heavy trucks and newly licensed drivers.
Later in the public‑comment period several residents described a separate but related safety and property issue: they said an electric‑utility contractor performing line clearing (identified in discussion as a contractor working for the utility commonly known as Eversource) used heavy equipment that removed or badly damaged multiple healthy trees on private property, extended beyond the immediate wire corridor, and affected wetlands. Residents said they received only a postcard notification earlier in the year and no proactive door‑to‑door outreach; they also said language and communication problems limited on‑site conversations with crew members.
Speakers said they had photographed the damage, called the police for advice when the crews worked on a Saturday, and left messages for the utility. Board members advised residents that contacting the utility (to raise concerns and deliver photos) was an appropriate first step and that town staff would check easements and wetland protections to confirm whether the contractor’s actions complied with state and utility rules.
Board members emphasized that electric utilities generally have easement rights for vegetation management but still must comply with state tree‑protection and wetlands regulations and should follow the utility’s own notification practices. The board asked staff to follow up with the utility and to advise residents on appeals or remediation options. Residents said they would gather photos and details and send them to town staff and the utility.
No formal enforcement action was announced at the meeting; the board said it would pursue follow‑up with the utility and review property easements and wetlands constraints.
