Fair Haven Shade Tree Commission Debates Crucial Tree Protection Ordinance Amidst Resident Concerns
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Meeting Type:
Shade Tree Commission
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Meeting Date:
08/07/2024
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Recording Published:
08/08/2024
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Duration:
128 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Fair Haven
- Meeting Overview:
The Fair Haven Shade Tree Commission held a meeting on August 7, 2024, to discuss several issues, prominently focusing on the advancement of a proposed tree protection ordinance which has stirred debate and resident concerns. The ordinance aims to regulate tree removal and replacement, balancing environmental preservation with property rights, and ensuring the community’s tree canopy remains intact amidst ongoing urban development.
The proposed tree protection ordinance has become a focal point of contention within the commission. The ordinance outlines procedures for tree removal, criteria for classifying hazardous trees, and mandates for tree replacement or fees in lieu of replacement.
Concerns were raised about the qualifications of commission members to draft the legislation without legal review, despite the model ordinance being compliant with New Jersey law. A member stated, “I don’t want the attorney to look at it until we hash out the politics… that’s just spending money, wasting money,” indicating a preference to resolve political disagreements before incurring legal costs.
The discussion revealed a split perspective on balancing environmental preservation and property rights. Some residents have voiced frustration over the perceived burdens imposed by the ordinance, exemplified by the comment, “what do you mean I have to pay to cut down my own trees?” This highlights the challenge the commission faces in crafting a policy that satisfies both environmental goals and the practical concerns of property owners.
The commission also deliberated on adding a stronger introduction to the ordinance, emphasizing tree preservation. One member suggested, “I just think it really should be a tree preservation that should definitely be like a lead,” advocating for the ordinance to reflect a clear commitment to protecting trees. A member noted, “I don’t love it, but yeah, I’m okay with it,” capturing the collective sentiment of the group.
Beyond the ordinance, the meeting addressed updates on the Fall Resident Tree Buying Program, set to commence on August 19 and conclude on September 13. This year’s program features a selection of shade and flowering trees, with adjustments made to the order form requiring residents to acknowledge their responsibility for marking their sprinkler systems before planting. This change aims to prevent issues arising from unmarked sprinkler systems during tree planting.
The commission also discussed potential tree planting locations, including areas off Marter and Hendrickson, and a new project along the Third Street Trail. Proposed planting sites included Martyr Park, near the school, where trees would provide shade for parents waiting during school hours. The commission considered various species for planting, such as Elms and Coffee Trees, emphasizing the importance of species diversity to mitigate disease risks. A decision was made to approve the planting of four trees in Martyr Park, contingent on a site assessment by a tree expert.
Another topic was the ongoing tree inventory, which as of the meeting had accounted for 2,100 trees, with a goal of reaching 2,600 trees. The inventory process has divided the town into priority zones for a comprehensive assessment of tree health and distribution. Concerns about invasive species, such as the Tree of Heaven associated with lantern fly infestations, were also discussed. The commission considered seeking grants to address invasive species, as the town’s budget may not suffice.
The meeting included updates on a CME tree report concerning 21 Fair Haven Road, highlighting the presence of dead or dying trees and recommendations for their removal. The property may be designated as a passive park in the future, but its current disrepair raised concerns about soil stability and erosion risks if trees are clear-cut. The commission agreed that if trees were to be removed, it should be done selectively to avoid destabilizing the hill.
Lastly, the commission discussed the enforcement of the ordinance, particularly regarding the criteria for determining hazardous trees. The authority of the town’s licensed tree expert, Sherry, was emphasized, with concerns about potential conflicts of interest from tree removal companies. The commission agreed that the licensed tree expert should have the final say in determining hazardous trees to ensure objective assessments.
Josh Halpern
Shade Tree Commission Officials:
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Meeting Type:
Shade Tree Commission
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
08/07/2024
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Recording Published:
08/08/2024
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Duration:
128 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Monmouth County
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Towns:
Fair Haven
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