Saturday, November 2, 2013

Lake Worth tree board to discuss removal of decades-old ficus | www.mypalmbeachpost.com

This is only about a year after the event. Checking the city's website, I see that the Tree Board has been meeting regularly. The last meeting minutes available are from July of this year. Here is a portion of them:
 NEW BUSINESS:

Discussion of officers.: Yolanda Sanchez was unanimously voted secretary for an interim term of 3 months. No nomination for Chairman so Mr. McGrew to continue to lead meetings. Intent to choose new chairman next meeting when new member appears.

Tree Ordinance Compliance in District 1: Witkin suggested doing a survey of rental properties in the area south of Lake Avenue between Dixie Highway and A St to determine compliance with landscape ordinance. This district chosen first because it’s most lacking in trees. Survey would be done by Tree board members and volunteers. Then if a property were found to be lacking a friendly letter would go to the owner/landlord asking them to plant the needed trees. Mr. McGrew to check on the legality of this. 

Community Recognition Award: Brought up by Ms Sanchez at the request of Commissioner Szerdi. Idea for Tree Board to somehow be involved in giving out neighborhood yard prizes. Consensus that concept is still too vague for us to act on and we suggested that Mr. Szerdi come to a future meeting to explain it to us.

Tree Ordinance Compliance Plaque: Witkin suggested attractive plaque for yards that are complying with the new landscape ordinance and have the required number of trees. Consensus that plaque should be small and attractive (and designed by a local artist) and residents would apply for it. Discussion of whether to charge or not for it – suggestion that it be free first year or so and then nominal fee to raise money for tree canopy.
Such are the heady things discussed at the Tree Board. Click title for link to the Lona O'Connor article.