City and county combine to remove trees in front of library

While the White County Public Library is officially located on North Church Street, it sits high on a hill overlooking Bockman Way, but the hill has been a source of problems concerning trees and vegetation.

A little over a year ago, the brush and undergrowth had become so thick that State Representative Paul Sherrell utilized state inmates to help clean the vegetation and make the hillside look more presentable. This month, trees had become the concern as one had a large branch break and hang threateningly above a power line owned by the city of Sparta.

“We are looking at a partnership with the county, because they are threatening our lines but are on county property, to remove those trees on the hill. I think it will be beneficial to us over time,” Sparta Mayor Jeff Young told the city alderman, on March 4.

Less than a week later, White County Tree Service was at the location cutting down the remaining trees.

“The trees had gotten out of hand and had become a danger to buildings, infrastructure, and people around the area,” County Executive Denny Wayne Robinson said and offered his thanks to the mayor and the city for bringing the problem to the forefront and taking the lead on getting the trees removed. “We now have a beautiful view of the library.”

No decision has been made yet as to what will replace the trees to ensure the safety of the existing powerlines and the neighboring buildings, but Robinson said discussions are taking place as they work to find the best solution.

“We are currently looking for the proper plants or materials to permanently repair the bank,” he said, acknowledging that it won’t just be a matter of aesthetics but also ensuring minimal erosion takes place to keep the library intact as well as not compromise the highway below.