Dunedin Neighbors Upset Over Tree Removal by Duke Energy

Residents in Dunedin, Florida, have voiced their concerns over the removal of trees along County Road 1 and Curlew Road by Duke Energy. Liz Murtagh, a concerned resident, decried the tree cutting, expressing that it has created an unsightly appearance and damaged the beauty of their town. She urged Duke Energy to discontinue tree removal and invest in burying their cables instead.

In response to the public outcry, Duke Energy released a statement emphasizing their responsibility to provide safe and reliable power to the community. The company stressed the importance of vegetation management in preventing power outages and ensuring the smooth flow of electricity to essential services such as hospitals, 911 centers, and nursing homes.

Despite the company’s efforts to balance aesthetics with functionality, some residents remain unconvinced. They argue that Duke Energy should not have unilateral control over green space management and advocate for alternative solutions like burying cables to preserve the town’s natural beauty.

However, some residents acknowledge the necessity of vegetation management to prevent outages. They understand that overgrown trees can pose a risk to power lines, especially during severe weather events. Residents like Kathleen Ramsey, who consented to the removal of trees in her backyard, appreciate the long-term benefits of preventing tree-related power failures.

While Ramsey acknowledges the importance of tree removal, she also laments the loss of shade and protection that the trees once provided. She hopes that Duke Energy will take steps to mitigate the impact of the tree removal by investing in landscaping and other measures to enhance the neighborhood’s appearance.

The debate over tree removal in Dunedin highlights the complex balance between maintaining reliable power and preserving the town’s natural beauty. As the issue continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Duke Energy and the community will work together to find a mutually acceptable solution.

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