A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to exploring the potential for a grant that could bolster tree planting efforts in the community. The council emphasized the importance of partnering with the local school system to facilitate the grant application process. This broader scope aims to engage more community members in the initiative.

The council members discussed the possibility of conducting a planting survey to gather residents’ preferences for tree locations. They considered various methods to collect input, such as direct visits or through newsletters. The survey is seen as a valuable tool, especially if the green community grant is secured, as the associated costs of surveying could be substantial. However, concerns were raised about the feasibility and resource requirements of such a survey.

Additionally, the council acknowledged the need to prioritize tree planting efforts by setting clear goals, such as avoiding areas with overhead wires to accommodate larger tree species. They emphasized the importance of identifying areas experiencing canopy loss that could benefit most from replanting. This structured approach is expected to enhance the borough’s tree management practices.

The conversation also touched on the successes of previous tree planting efforts, noting a relatively low loss of trees during severe weather events last year. This was attributed to effective tree management practices already in place. The council plans to review a draft policy prioritizing tree pruning and removal in the next meeting, which is seen as a step toward establishing a more structured approach to tree management in Morris Plains.

In a separate yet related discussion, the council addressed several ongoing tree maintenance issues. A memo regarding a tree on Styles Avenue detailed a resident’s concern about a large tree that fell, narrowly missing their house. The council discussed the need to address the remaining stump and consider pruning other township trees nearby. Due to snow obstruction, they agreed to revisit the stump’s measurement once conditions improved to confirm ownership and responsibility.

Another memo highlighted tree issues at 2605, where a resident reported large branches falling onto their property. It was determined that the tree in question was not a municipal responsibility, but another nearby town tree had branches posing a risk, warranting attention. The council confirmed that the resident had been informed and that appropriate action would be taken regarding the town tree.

The discussion also covered tree concerns on Silvin Drive, where prior issues with a leaning tree had been addressed. The council deliberated on the costs associated with tree removal and pruning, noting that a new contract had led to increased rates. There was a suggestion to remove the tree from the pruning checklist until a full inspection confirmed its condition. A member raised concerns about a tree potentially damaged by a plow and whether it would survive, leading to a decision to monitor the tree closely.

The total cost for the discussed tree work amounted to $3,280, and a motion to approve the forester’s report passed unanimously.