Tough Cuts and Tough Questions

Tree trimming is on hold for a utility company in Atchison, Kansas. Westar Energy voluntarily had it`s contractor cut back on cutting trees in response to community concerns. Several residents say Wright Tree Service employees weren`t up front about how much trimming would actually happen on their property. Other residents say they didn`t get a notice that the company was coming. Westar contracted Wright Tree Service to trim or remove trees that were dangerously close to power lines are could cause problems in the future. Westar says their contracted companies follow national arbor guidelines. A company spokeswoman Gina Penzig says that every home that will be serviced receives a packet that`s placed on their door knob. Penzig also says that their contractors work closely with residents so they know exactly how much trimming will be completed. "High voltage transmission lines must have at least 25 feet of clearance. If trees are planted directly below those lines, by the time you cut 25 feet away there isn`t much left." Resident and Park Board Member Brian Hagen says he did not receive any notice about his property being trimmed. He also says that the trimming didn`t seem professional. He says that branches seemed to be cut at random regardless of how close they were to power lines. Hagen said, "Just because it`s legal doesn`t necessarily make it right in so far as being a good neighbor or good citizen." If residents have any questions or comments they can call Westar`s customer service hotline at 1-800-383-1183.