Save village from chainsaw massacre

The village board needs to reconsider the removal of 13,000 ash trees and fund a treatment program. We all have too much to lose.

With neighborhoods bordered by high traffic areas trees curb air pollution, act as sound barriers, and offer flood control. They also increase property values and decrease utility costs. What other village asset does so much for so little?

A current engineering flood control study will be rendered ineffective with the loss of 13,000 parkway trees.

A new treatment, TREE-age, has proved up to 99 percent effective and lasts two-three years. Depending on tree size and the number of trees treated, costs range $100-$200 per tree. Removal and replacement costs about $900 per tree. Treatment is not “exorbitant.”

The board states the trees are “ A village capital asset ... multimillion dollars of live asset.”

Treatment is NOT a maintenance cost, but action to preserve and conserve and the $2 million general fund should go to protect this valuable asset.

Removing all trees will have a severe economic and environmental impact; a mistake that will last for 20 years before replacement trees reach maturity. What message are we sending to our children? The village board needs to provide incentive and help fund treatment costs. Residents are asked to voice their opinion and work together.

Make a difference! Save our trees!

Christine Sacks

Arlington Heights