In a recent city council meeting, the focus was on an appeal regarding a significant zoning fine related to unpermitted tree removals at the Arnold Mill Office Park in Woodstock. The appellant, Parks Hough representing Carmichael Development, sought to vacate or amend a $68,100 fine imposed after city staff discovered unauthorized tree work on the site.

The office park, which spans approximately 2.3 acres and is located in the Downtown General Commercial zone, was annexed into the city in 2002 with specific zoning conditions, including a requirement for a 40-foot vegetative buffer along its western edge, adjacent to single-family residences. The fine was levied after city staff were alerted to tree removals that occurred without the necessary permits, which are mandated for the removal of protected trees—defined as those larger than three inches in diameter.

City staff detailed the timeline leading to the fine, noting that the unauthorized work was reported after hours, prompting police intervention to halt the activity. A subsequent tree inventory revealed that 39 protected trees, totaling 454 inches of growth, had been removed. The city’s tree ordinance requires fines based on the amount of tree inches cut down without a permit, leading to the substantial fine.

During the meeting, Hough argued that the tree removals were necessary for maintenance and that many of the trees were dead or posed a risk to the newly constructed building. He emphasized that the work was not malicious and suggested that the fine was excessive given the circumstances. Hough also pointed out that the tree service hired for the work should have been aware of the permitting requirements.

City staff maintained that the fine should remain in place, citing the appellant's failure to communicate with city officials prior to the tree removals and the lack of a replanting plan until shortly before the meeting. They underscored the importance of tree preservation in maintaining the urban canopy and mitigating heat island effects in the downtown area.

After extensive discussion, council members expressed a desire to find a balanced solution. They ultimately decided to table the decision for 45 days to allow for further evaluation of the situation and to encourage the appellant to work with city staff on a potential replanting plan. This decision reflects the council's commitment to both enforcing zoning regulations and supporting local development efforts.

In addition to the tree fine appeal, the meeting included discussions on various city matters, including the approval of work authorizations for capital projects and the reappointment of a library board member. The council also acknowledged the upcoming Juneteenth holiday, marking an important milestone in American history.