Saving ash trees is even more urgent

With the recent flooding, it is vital to revisit the emerald ash borer issue.

Ÿ The village recently paid for a flood control study, yet the pending loss of 13,000 ash trees will add an additional 28.6 million gallons of stormwater runoff each year to our neighborhood.

Ÿ The village enacted an anti-idling campaign to cut air pollution, yet the loss of 13,000 ash trees will add 6,890 tons of carbon dioxide yearly to the air we breathe

Ÿ It will cost the village $800-$1,200 per tree to remove/replace trees, yet using the village work crews, it will cost $150-$200 per tree to treat trees over a 6-year span.

Ÿ Property values will decrease 10-15 percent.

Ÿ Utility costs will increase 20-25 percent.

Mayor Hayes and the village board, working with our excellent public works and forestry units can save not only our trees, but our neighborhoods as well. No other single issues before the village has impacted every resident on so many levels.

Christine Sacks

Arlington Heights