Live Shade

Recently (Jun 6) the city received a report from the Public Works Dept concerning trees and downtown. This was a follow up to the report of the "ad hoc Tree Committee". Two options for adding trees, as recommended by the ad hoc Tree Committee, were given.

Public Works reported that the cost of a bulb out, an irrigation system (using re-cycled water as requested) and moving a city water line would cost about $17K per tree. Our mayor was surprised at this cost - apparently assuming it would be much lower. After all, the city had recently upped the required payment for removing a downtown tree from $250 to $2500. This was all sparked by Barnacle Bill’s desire for an awning instead of a tree and was supposed to be the replacement cost for a tree.

Now that we know the real cost of adding a tree, we would suggest the city re-visit their off-the-cuff $2500 fee and consider something more realistic (and based on data). If a property owner wishes to remove a downtown tree, the true cost for replacement is a reasonable charge. After all, the city did pay for the installation of all the trees on Main St and all are thriving.

The Commissioners indicated that now was not the time to proceed with installing the new bulb outs and trees since a number of Main St parking places have been temporarily lost because of construction and because the city has not yet constructed enough off-street parking - although it is interesting to note that the Whole Foods public parking always has lots of empty spaces.

We have no problem with delaying the installation of the new trees in bulb outs. We know the Commissioners committed to installing these trees and they will eventually make good on their promise.

Right?