The Perry City Council continues the discussion on how to handle trees in the right of way.

Perry City Administrator Sven Peterson tells Raccoon Valley Radio the City has put a moratorium on planting new trees in the right of way. Peterson says the recent derecho storm has brought many issues to the surface regarding having trees near the street. Peterson adds that problems extend beyond downed branches as the City has had to deal with sewer issues as tree roots have been causing backups by breaching the underground line. 

Peterson says the discussion at the recent City Council meeting was beneficial, “The tree ordinance conversation was a good conversation, and we did receive some feedback from the public. I got a phone call from one person, and then someone was at open forum to discuss as well. Both folks had good points and good points of view. What we’ve done is put kind of a moratorium on planting any trees in the right of way through March 31st of 2021. So that’ll give us some time to study this issue and hopefully come back with some good recommendations for the Council.”

Peterson adds they’re looking to find a balance between providing the aesthetic of tree-lined streets while being responsible to taxpayers regarding the cost of related repairs.