If the tree was close to dead the root system is probably rotting and could be pulled out with a tractor, I've done it on the farm. If you live in the city or the tree was very alive, get out your cheque book. It will sprout new growth like crazy.

Tie a rope around it, then tie the rope to the back of your car, then drive away slowly.

Rent a stump grinder and do it your self. I am taking out about 10 of them on Tuesday.

cut it down to ground level. Take a 1 inch drill bit or other big bit and drill holes in it. When it rains water will hold in it and help to decompose it faster. Even if you grind it out, any roots still living will put up sprouts until they are dead.

I don't consider box elder to be a species likely to sprout from the roots. I've never once seen that happen. Stump suckers-heck yeah, but not root sprouts.

+om