Minutes - 2001/05/29 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mounds View City Council May 29, 2001 Regular Meeting Page 6 Ms. Gay indicated that the trees removed were in the construction areas. She pointed out that they are replacing all the trees that have been removed but stated that mature trees cannot be replaced with mature trees. She then noted that in order to construct trees have to be removed and that is why they are replaced on the site. Council Member Thomas indicated that the City goes through construction plans in order to save as many trees as possible. Council Member Marty indicated he had received a number of calls that day from residents that he represents who were concerned about the tree removal. He then noted that what took place was not the plan that was presented to and approved by Council. He further noted that Council acted on the plan presented to it by Ms. Gay. Ms. Gay stated that they have not changed the plan at all. Council Member Marty indicated that Council Member Thomas had specifically asked about the trees and that Ms. Gay said they would not be removed which is what the City is taking issue with on behalf of residents. He then noted that possibly a two for one replacement of the trees or something similar should be done to compensate for the error. Ms. Gay asked if Council would have asked for two for one replacement had they been aware of the removals plan at the Council meeting where this was approved. Council Member Marty stated that Council might not have approved the plan. Ms. Gay stated she is not sure whether or not the School District would approve a two for one replacement of the trees. Council Member Thomas indicated that, in her opinion, the plans would not have been approved without significant change. She then asked what the contractor was going to do to make up for the error. Council Member Quick commented concerning the statement requesting two for one replacement of the trees. He noted that the mistake was that Council was told that no trees would be removed. He noted that when a resident decides to cut down a tree they do not ask for a permit or permission from the City, and, since Pinewood is a resident the City has no jurisdiction over the trees. He then advised Council to be prudent in its judgment on this matter. Council Member Quick stated he does not think he would have voted against the plan because trees were being taken down since the City has no ordinance governing that issue. He further noted that it is unfortunate to see the trees go down but stated they are not City trees and if the resident wants to cut them down they may do so. Council Member Thomas asked Mr. Good how the school felt about the loss of the trees.