Residents raise concerns about fiber-optic construction and low-hanging trees during Benbrook public comment

During the Benbrook City Council’s public-comment period on Aug. 7, residents praised public-safety responders and raised several neighborhood concerns—most prominently construction-related damage from fiber-optic work and low-hanging trees that may affect emergency and city vehicles.

Paul Galvan, who said he has lived in Benbrook for more than 35 years, thanked the Benbrook Police Department for prompt responses and described discussing issues about fiber-optic construction and property damage with the city manager. Galvan said he expects follow-up from the manager and the construction company.

Larry Stowe spoke about a developer scheduled to appear before the council at a future meeting and urged council members to review a July 25 Star-Telegram report before voting. Stowe identified the developer as Corey Northrop (also referenced in the transcript as "Wall Drop" in public comment); he asked the council to take the newspaper reporting into account when the item returns for consideration.

Jennifer Harper of 1105 South Timberline Drive raised a public-safety concern about tree limbs overhanging streets and interfering with emergency and service vehicles. "I personally believe that that should be a code enforcement issue," Harper said, and asked the city to consider a more proactive approach than waiting for vehicles to strike limbs and call police.

Robin Mota introduced herself as a Republic Services representative assigned to the area and left contact information with the city secretary for resident inquiries about trash service. Multiple speakers also praised the fire department: one resident credited the department with responding to a life‑threatening event and said he appreciated their assistance.

City staff indicated they would follow up on the items raised: a council member directed staff (Jim) to follow up with Ms. Harper on the tree concerns and Galvan said he had been in contact with the city manager about the fiber-optic construction and expected a response and follow-up from the company involved.

The public-comment period closed with the council noting the items will be addressed by staff or appear on a future agenda if formal action is required.