Two sides work toward compromise in tree-trimming controversy

On Tuesday, Sept. 10, a contracted tree-trimming crew, contracted through Rutherford Electric Membership Corporation (REMC), came to trim two helm trees that had grown toward the power lines at the residence on Old Highway 18 south of Morganton.

The EMC’s right of way to trim is 20 feet.

The crew arrived and informed Howard that they would be trimming within their right of way. Further in their work, several limbs were cut on the base of the first tree that was facing the road.

Harmon, who is 80 years old with heart problems and is usually in a wheelchair, had come outside to attempt to stop the crew from continuing with its work. When she asked them to stop, one of the crew members allegedly told her, “I can do anything I want, lady. You can’t stop me.”

Feeling threatened and shaking, Harmon said she told the crew member that she could make him stop if she retrieved her gun. They informed her that they would be back with law enforcement to ensure the trimming would continue. Harmon was later helped into the home by Howard.

The trees were planted by Howard’s late parents, he said, and are nearly 60 years old.

“The thought of these trees being cut down the way they are is breaking my heart,” Harmon said, days following the incident.

NEUTRAL GROUND

After conversations on the phone between the residents and REMC, the owner of the tree trimming service and REMC personnel arrived at the home on Monday, Sept. 16.

Along the fence were the stacked limbs that were cut from the tree, in front of the fence. The couple said the trimming crew cut 13 feet beyond the 20-foot right of way, which was marked by posts with pink flags.

The crew arrived on the property and listened to the residents as they shared their perspectives. During the conversation, there were heated moments as they went through their points.

The personnel explained that to bring in their truck, they had to cut limbs obstructing their way. There were other areas in the yard to enter through but required cutting down other plant life.

When it came to the discussion about the “rude” crew member, the personnel explained that since they were not at the home when the incident occurred, what was said would be considered hearsay.

The couple also explained that the upkeep of the tree was previously handled by one of their friends who also is a professional tree trimmer. Harmon also knows many arborists and she had contacted the North Carolina-certified arborists about the incident.

The couple has been informed that with the maintenance of the tree, the tools need to be disinfected because a disease/fungus could be transmitted from a previous tree.

After various back-and-forth discussions, it was revealed that both Harmon and the tree service owner knew the same arborist. The owner agreed to hire an arborist and do any treatment or solutions that they recommended, free of cost to the couple.

THREAT TO TRIMMERS

REMC General Manager Dirk Burleson explained the operations of the company and provided clarification on the incident.

Although there is a 20-foot right of way from the center of the line (for a total 40-foot width right of way), REMC and contracted tree trimmers have the right to cut/trim what may interfere with the safety and operation of their work.

Trimming the trees also prevent the public from being electrocuted or killed.

Burleson also explained that homeowners may promise they will maintain their trees, however, following up on that may not always be the case.

Maintaining that right of way is an important and expensive factor in maintaining the electrical distribution system.

When it comes to alleged threats like this incident, Burleson said that the tree trimmers are advised to leave. From there, someone will evaluate the situation, and management may speak to the homeowner. There may be times that REMC contacts local law enforcement to assist.

In his many years of employment, Burleson said he has often heard stories that have different sides and points.

This particular incident is an exception to what REMC deals with; Burleson explained. 99% of homeowners understand their mission and how they handle operations.

“We make sure that everyone is safe,” Burleson said. “We do have to maintain the trees because we have to maintain those lines. People want and expect their power to be on.”