Here's What's Hot On CBS11TV.COM:
Oct 12, 2009 10:15 pm US/Central
Dallas Residents & Oncor Debate Tree Pruning
DALLAS (CBS 11 / TXA 21) ―
Some Dallas residents say Oncor is butchering their trees. But officials with the electric delivery business say they're just trying to provide electricity in a safe manner. Residents and company officials came together to discuss the issue Monday night.
Residents are upset about having some of their trees pruned to a V-shape around power lines.
The problem of pruning has especially become an issue in the Kiestwood area of Oak Cliff. Residents there say the trimming has ruined the character of the neighborhood. "In my neighborhood, Oncor has come in and massacred a great number of trees and ruined our neighborhood. We're trying to prevent them from doing this to the rest of the city," said homeowner Jon Montgomery.
During the meeting, hosted by Dallas city council member Angela Hunt, Oncor said they have already taken some steps improve the process, like giving residents more notice before trimming. The extra notice is meant to allow homeowners time to find other solutions, like burying power lines at their own expense.
"The reason Oncor has to maintain trees in our right of way is for the safety and reliability of electric service and the health of the tree," explained Oncor spokesperson Catherine Cuellar.
Oncor has also set up a hotline so residents can voice their concerns. Officials with the company say, instead of communicating with contractors about tree pruning, the hotline allows residents to speak with them more directly.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
Hollywood Hair
Click to enlarge
Stumble It!
