Alert “06880” reader — and concerned streetscape admirer — Bob Weingarten writes:
Westport’s tree warden decides whether a tree on town property should be removed.
That includes the strip of land extending from public roads to private property, in front of most Westport houses. We’ve all seen signs on trees that are to be removed. After authorization, a town crew cuts down the tree. But they frequently leave the stump, because it is costly to remove. (Homeowners who remove trees on their property usually do remove stumps.)
One stump …
Recently the town removed 4 trees, because of decay or other issues, on Hillandale Road. The stumps are still in place, and probably will remain.
… more stumps …
There are also 2 tree stumps on Center Street, and many stumps on other streets.
They become very unsightly, with all kinds of growth.
… and another. (Photos/Bob Weingarten)
The issue is whether the town should remove the stumps, because they change the characteristics of our streets and the value of our homes. I believe that since the stumps are on town property, homeowner cannot remove them.
I’d like to hear what other Westporters think.