McMinnville’s Public Works Department is still working on tree debris removal after storms ripped through the area three weeks ago. Before the process can be complete, some homeowners must adhere to requirements of brush removal.
“Public Works crews removing storm damage tree limbs have completed an initial sweep of the entire city,” said McMinnville Public Works assistant director Brad Hennessee. “Brush collection has returned to normal schedules.”
Crews worked for approximately two weeks systematically picking up tree debris left by homeowners by the roadside after storms ripped through the city three weeks ago. However, Hennessee says some piles could not be picked up.
“There is some brush the city was not able to pick up during the city-wide sweep for varying reasons, such as brush mixed with trash or junk, brush too far from the roadway for our crews to reach, and brush too heavy for the truck to lift or too long to safely transport being the most common reasons,” he said.
Before the department can remove the piles, homeowners must make sure their pile of debris meets the following guidelines:
• Separate brush from junk or trash – piles of mixed brush, junk and trash will not be picked up.
• Place brush where it can be reached from the city street – material must be brought to curbside or street edge but not placed in the roadway.
• Tree limbs must be cut into sections – pieces must be less than 8 feet in length and less than 12 inches in diameter.
The city of McMinnville collects brush and limbs for residents who do their own trimming and cutting. This service is provided year-round. Bagged leaves and other yard waste material is collected by a special truck. Limbs, tree trunks, or other debris cut by private contractors will not be picked up.
Residents who have questions about brush removal are encouraged to call 473-2553. Someone from the department will meet with the resident on-site to determine what corrective actions are to be taken so the brush can be removed.