CC MEETING: May 17, 2016
DATE: May 9, 2016
TO: Leonard Martin, City Manager
FROM: Laurie Garber, City Secretary/Admin. Services Manager
Title
Discuss Oncor’s Tree Trimming Practices.
Body
BACKGROUND:
Upon Council request, staff researched possible solutions to Oncor’s current tree trimming practices underneath powerlines along certain roads. The following properties were mentioned as areas of concern that are located in a right-of way:
• Frankford Road (between Josey and Kelly)
• Josey Lane (between Trinity Mills and Frankford)
• E Jackson Road (surrounding Cater Lake)
• Keller Springs Road (between Old Denton and Josey)
• 2 Trees on Russell Avenue
Other areas of concern are located on private property. A comprehensive list of these locations is attached.
Trees are one of the major causes of power outages. In order to provide reliable electric service and ensure public safety, Oncor performs regular tree trimming maintenance throughout service territories to try to maintain a ten foot clearance from high voltage power lines. Because of immense safety hazards, Chapter 752 of the Texas Health and Safety Code prohibits a customer from trimming their own trees within six feet of high voltage lines.
Large trees in the areas listed above can be removed and replaced with smaller, ornamental trees to avoid intruding into Oncor’s clearance area. Because of the size of the trees being removed, they cannot be successfully transplanted.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
The total estimate to remove and replace trees in the cited locations is $80,800.00. As this estimate is based on experience with a former contractor rather than actual bids by a tree removal contractor, competitive bidding is recommended.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION/ACTION DESIRED:
Staff is requesting direction from Council on how to proceed.
ATTACHMENTS:
Tree Removal and Replacement Estimates