The recent cyclone bomb storm has given us an opportunity to examine our storm readiness in Issaquah Highlands. The IHCA teams were prepared, and working in conjunction with the City of Issaquah, we were able to quickly address the community’s needs.
Unfortunately, IHCA lost over 30 trees in the storm in various areas of the community. The trees have since been removed and replanting will take place by March 2025. Some trees that were originally planted next to critical utilities, too close to intersections, or causing sidewalk damage may not be replaced. However, we will enhance the landscaping in those bare areas to maintain their appeal.
Here is the most common question received after the storm:
There is a tree behind my house in the open space that is cracked or fell over. What should I do?
There are multiple landowners for open space in our community: City of Issaquah, King County and Issaquah Highlands. To determine who owns a tree and locate your property lines, check on the King County parcel viewer website.
Simply zoom to your location and left click on your address. Next, confirm your address and click on the open space by your home. The parcel owner will be listed in the white note box. You can also contact the IHCA office, and we can assist you.
If you see a downed tree in a roadway, contact 911 or the City of Issaquah non-emergency line at 425-837-3000.
City of Issaquah:
- Submit a ticket for a tree issue with the City of Issaquah. You can also download the City of Issaquah app to submit requests via your phone!
- Find more citywide emergency information here.
- The city is hosting a debris collection event on Sunday, Dec. 8, at Tibbets Valley Park (965 12th Ave NW). Debris must be limited in size and quantity. This event is available for Issaquah residents only. Learn more here.
King County:
- King County wants to know if your home or business was damaged in the storm. This information may help the county with requesting state and federal government disaster assistance. Find more details here.
- For tree issues on county property, call the non-emergency line at 425-837-3028.
Issaquah Highlands Community Association (IHCA):
- IHCA is responsible for common area trees in streetscapes and neighborhoods, including branches too close to home.
- Contact the IHCA main office at 425-427-9257 or email asktheihca@ihcommunity.org. The office is staffed Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- For after-hours emergencies, please call 425-223-8887.
I am thankful that we all weathered the storm successfully. A big thank you to the IHCA crews for all their hard work!
Sarah Hoey is the executive director of the IHCA.
