Whisperwood subdivision residents shared their concerns at a May 17 meeting with Holland Village Council about the problem of tree roots damaging sidewalks.
They believe action needs to be taken, but residents have divided views on whether to remove trees in the right-of-way and who should pay for the work.
“I have a rollercoaster sidewalk–it’s sinking on one side and raising on the other,” said a Whisperwood Parkway resident.
Council President Ryan Spangler, also a Whisperwood resident, has heard from neighbors that “they love to look at the trees but are worried about the safety of those walking on the sidewalks.”
Tree roots are causing sidewalks and driveways to buckle and tilt, plus they are damaging sewer lines.
“I hope we can find somewhat of a common ground,” Councilman Spangler said.
Councilman Roger Burditt asked for a show of hands in the crowd of more than 50 citizens for those who would prefer to keep the trees in place, and six people supported that option.
Councilman Nate Gaubert, also a Whisperwood resident, said in about 30 locations, the sidewalks have substantial changes in elevation that could trip pedestrians.
“Some are a combination of multiple trees,” he noted.
One resident told council she moved into her home in 2002 and did not want a tree planted but was required by the developer.
A Whisperlake Road resident said he is willing to take the trees on his property down himself.
“It’s hard to mow because the roots are so big–it’s a losing battle,” he added.
A Whisperwood Parkway neighbor expressed concern about potential expensive sewer bills and asked if sewer lines could be inspected.
She noted that two neighbors had to pay bills of $3,300 and $4,400 to fix damage caused by tree roots.
According to Councilman Burditt, there are 254 trees in the Whisperwood right-of-way, and the cost to remove them, grind the stumps and fill the holes would be $36,750.
Several residents asked if the village could pay for the cost of removal.
Although trees have been taken down in the past due to emergencies, Mayor Lee Irons said that is not an option based on village finances.
“Right now, I can’t just send somebody out there to do free work in Whisperwood,” he said, adding that trees may be causing similar damage in other Holland neighborhoods.
He also noted that state law places the responsibility for sidewalks on property owners.
Councilman Mike Bettinger explained that uneven sidewalks could be leveled by grinding them down, but it is a noisy and dusty process.
The homeowners association leaders informed council that their regulations require property owners to replace any trees that are removed.
The residents in attendance said they would like to see an HOA vote to waive that rule. It would require the approval of two-thirds of homeowners.
The mayor asked the HOA leaders to notify the village when that change is made.
