Community leader demands action on neglected royal palms

During a recent government meeting, community members voiced concerns regarding the state of the city’s royal palm trees, highlighting the need for a comprehensive maintenance plan. Mary McCarty, a former city commissioner, emphasized the negative impact of unsightly tree stumps scattered throughout the town, which she argued convey a message of neglect.

McCarty pointed out that the disease affecting the royal palms is contagious and urged the city to hire an arborist to manage the health and maintenance of these trees. She suggested that the city could seek advice from neighboring Palm Beach, which has a successful maintenance program for its royal palms. Additionally, she proposed that Ocean Properties, which employs an arborist for its properties, could provide valuable assistance.

The discussion also touched on the financial aspects of maintaining the trees, with McCarty advocating for a budget allocation to replace the current inadequate replacements with proper royal palms. She stressed the importance of presenting a well-maintained image to both residents and visitors, asserting that investing in the town's aesthetics is crucial for community pride and perception.

In a separate update, the museum reported significant engagement with the community, noting an attendance of 24,000 visitors and $34,250 in donations over the past two years. The museum's collaboration with the city’s sustainability office was highlighted, showcasing a commitment to community involvement and cultural enrichment.

The meeting underscored the dual focus on environmental stewardship and community engagement, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to enhance both its natural and cultural landscapes.