MIDDLESEX TWP — Because trees are a growing problem in some parts of Middlesex Township, supervisors Tuesday night began discussing how to address the issue.

Supervisor Chairman Mike Spreng told the board he's concerned about trees planted between sidewalks and some curbs in the Weatherburn Heights residential development.

“When they were put in there, I questioned why,” Spreng said. “The trucks are hitting them going in.”

However, Spreng added, the trees have yet to reach a height that prevents tall vehicles from driving through leaves and branches.

“I don't know whether we should go in and just shave them back,” Spreng said.

He's concerned they may never grow high enough.

On the other hand, Spreng said if the trees grow too big they could break the sidewalk.

“It's going to probably take another 20 years,” Spreng said, adding “The sidewalk is going to be busted.”

Township solicitor Mike Hnath told the board there are residential developments in other municipalities that have planted trees between the sidewalk and the curb.

Supervisor Don Marshall asked if tree trimming would fall under the jurisdiction of the Homeowner's Association. Hnath said it would.

“The trees are their responsibility, too,” Hnath said.

Township officials determined the HOA would need to be notified of the need for tree trimming.

A representative of Community Management Group, the HOA company that services Weatherburn Heights, declined to comment when reached by the Eagle on Thursday.

Other community members at Tuesday's meeting also questioned whether the township will be trimming trees on Denny Road. Spreng said preliminary quotes gathered for the separate project were between $180,000 and $260,000.

“We do want to do something,” Marshall said. “We just don't want a (price) like that.”

Supervisors told residents the township is continuing to explore tree trimming options.

Township manager Travis Cavanaugh announced there are no updates on the proposed township sports complex.“The design that you see on the Internet, that's about it right now,” Cavanaugh said.The project is still awaiting approval from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, according to Cavanaugh.DCNR originally provided funding for the purchase of the land the complex would sit on.“We're just waiting to get their approval,” Cavanaugh said.Supervisors approved a $43,065 bond release for the Weaver Homes project during the meeting.A resolution to dispose of 2012 municipal records — in accordance with Pennsylvania Act 428 of 1968 — was also approved.