The small straight up growth are called water sprouts, you get allot when pruned back allot. If it's just ornamental then I wouldn't bother pruning, else, cut the water sprouts off and prune to get more light in. The hole on the base ...stuff it with some rocks to prevent a rodent's home, otherwise the tree still has many more years live left.

One says cut down. One says it has plenty of years ahead. I need both sides of the story:). When in bloom it actually looks nice. I agree about it being butchered a bit--I cut some branches away from the power lines.

I second what ken said. Unless this tree is somehow sentimental to you, it's going to be very easy to prune. Make one cut as close to the ground as possible, the throw some mulch over it to help speed up the process of rotting. The only hope for this tree may be hard pruning, because it looks really ugly in my opinion, and probably doesn't look any better when leafed out. Basically, to hard prune, just make "stub cuts" like you would if starting a pollard. Please note that this pruning technique should not be used on just any trees, and usually does more harm than good

Untidy is normal for these and when people try to make them fit stereotypic images of what a tree should look like butchery and torment are very often the result.

Every species of tree has different methods. so it is very necessary to whomever you hire to cater tree pruning or trimming, they must know exactly what they are doing with your complete satisfaction.

"they must know exactly what they are doing with your complete satisfaction."

Then they need a chainsaw. With one cut at the base.

Logan just stop please. Your personal taste doesn't apply to everyone.

Sad, but true