Seattle council members stress tree preservation and community ownership in parks

The Select Committee on the Comprehensive Plan convened on April 30, 2025, to discuss key issues surrounding tree preservation, community ownership, and urban development in Seattle. The meeting highlighted the need for improved strategies in tree preservation and emphasized the importance of community engagement in maintaining local parks and public spaces.

One council member opened the discussion by acknowledging the diverse perspectives among council members but stressed a collective agreement on the necessity for better tree preservation practices. They noted that current methods are not effective and called for a willingness to adapt and improve. The member shared personal experiences of receiving feedback from constituents about the inadequacies in current city efforts, advocating for a proactive approach to address these concerns.

The conversation shifted towards the concept of community ownership, with the council member reflecting on their father's long tenure in the parks department. They emphasized that individuals who work in Seattle should be able to afford to live in the city, fostering a sense of ownership over local parks and neighborhoods. This ownership, they argued, would lead to greater community responsibility for maintaining public spaces, rather than relying solely on city resources.

Council member Kettle contributed to the discussion by highlighting the potential for balancing urban density with environmental preservation. They referenced a past example involving the Seattle Children's Home, which was developed into a residential area while maintaining significant tree cover. This example served to illustrate that it is possible to achieve both development and environmental sustainability.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the importance of community involvement in urban planning and the need for policies that support residents' ability to live and work in Seattle. The committee plans to continue exploring these themes in future discussions, aiming to create a more sustainable and engaged community.