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Look at the Problem

Our Connecticut state legislators representing those cities or towns that suffered the worst storm damage this past winter should have already banded themselves into a political force that will enact law to not only permit our power companies to take down trees that threaten transmission or distribution lines, but also require them to notify any private property owners of their trees that need to be cut back for similar reason. The extent of damage this past winter caused many to suffer unnecessary physical and financial hardship that could be with them for the rest of their lives. Is Puerto Rico the flagrant example? A storm in the Northeast U.S. could be far more catastrophic if it comes during sub-zero weather. Think back to Ella Grasso’s closed state roads. That action was taken after the fact. Our need is before the fact (before our next hurricane or worse, before the next sub-zero ice storm).

Trees may be considered semi-religious objects by many, including myself, but not when they threaten life, limb, and untold suffering. Simply look at the problem where Neck Road begins, or, look at the problem across from the library on the Post Road. These insult our common sense.

The standard homeowners policies do not provide coverage for damage resulting from off-premises power loss. The extent of loss that is not covered can be huge.

Edwin P. Varley

Madison