In a recent government meeting, the Leominster City Council discussed a petition from National Grid requesting permission to remove a tree on Lancaster Street to facilitate the installation of a new utility pole. The tree, a 33-inch diameter little leaf Linden, has been identified as a hazard due to its location, which poses accessibility issues related to a recently replaced sidewalk.

The Department of Public Works (DPW) provided a letter explaining that the tree's removal is necessary to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and to eliminate a guy wire that currently supports a utility pole across the street. The DPW's assessment indicated that the tree is in poor condition, citing issues such as codominant stems and crown dieback, which could compromise its stability.

During the meeting, council members expressed concerns about the tree's health, with some questioning the necessity of its removal. Councilor Tasi noted that the tree appeared healthy and suggested exploring alternatives to save it. Other councilors echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of accommodating wheelchair access while potentially preserving the tree.

Councilor Angelini pointed out that the tree survey conducted a few years ago, which informed the DPW's recommendation, was carried out by arborists, lending credibility to the assessment. However, several council members remained skeptical, advocating for further investigation into the tree's condition and the possibility of a workaround to maintain it.

The discussion highlighted a broader concern regarding the management of street trees and their impact on public safety and accessibility. The council ultimately decided to gather more information before making a final decision on the petition, reflecting a commitment to balancing infrastructure needs with environmental considerations.