There are many dead trees in Hopkinton within the fall zone of a public road. What is the Town doing about this? In recent years there have been many people killed or injured by falling trees or limbs.

Elaine Lazarus assigned this issue to John Westerling

Trees in Hopkinton are evaluated by the Tree Warden and first determined to be public or private. Public trees are further evaluated to determine of they are dangerous and must be removed. Trees may be reported to the Tree Warden by calling 508-497-9740 with the specific location of the tree.

Most of these trees are on private property. The Town may have by-laws requiring private property owners to address public safety issues like dead trees that may fall and kill a passer-by. If not, the BOH has broad powers to quickly adopt regulations requiring property owners to resolve these issues. Who would be in charge on this important issue?

Why was my comment blocked?

Mr Westerling. Who would be the point person or department to address this safety issue?

Mr. Kane - the Town has no jurisdiction over private trees.

I do not know why your comment was blocked.

Interesting. The Towns can condemn private buildings on private property even though there are no safety concerns to the public (unless one is trespassing). But a private tree can fall onto a passing car, kill the occupant(s), and the Town has no interest in protecting the citizenry. Ashland is now looking into addressing this issue "before" a tragedy occurs. I understand the issue here, but you really need to look into what can be done. How about asking Town Counsel for options?

Winter is approaching. Dead trees are still in abundance around Hopkinton streets.Who is going to be responsible when someone is killed or injured? Does anyone in Hopkinton care?