During the Oct. 16 meeting the Carbondale Tree Board discussed a recent round of line‑clearance work performed by a contractor identified as ArborWorks and asked staff to improve public notifications when vendors perform tree work that affects the community.

Noah Sakamoto, the board member who raised the item, said the work appeared to happen with “little to no notice” and “impacted lots of people, on their private lands.” He and other board members asked for clearer communication about which company would be working, the scope of pruning or removals, and the expected start and finish dates.

Board members reported that the town arborist, Carl, told them there is no standard vendor notification procedure and that staff will take the concern back to public works and the contractor supervisors. Administrative staff advised that public works typically issues notices for town‑run street projects and that Carl would be asked to provide advance notice to the public when outside vendors are scheduled to prune or remove trees that will affect private property or the right of way.

The board recommended directing staff to request that vendors provide notice to affected residents and to publish a short public announcement when significant tree work is planned. Trustee liaison Ross was not available for the entire discussion but members suggested he inform trustees of the board’s concern so trustees and staff can support a standardized notice practice.

Board members discussed related opportunities, including evaluating whether certain over‑mature trees should be removed wholly and replanted with species better suited to wires and right‑of‑way constraints (members referenced past projects on Third Street and Eighth Street where planting choices were adapted to overhead utilities).

No formal vote was required or taken. The board asked staff to follow up: when public‑facing tree work is scheduled Carl or public works should post or provide a notice with vendor contact information, scope and timing so residents can prepare or raise questions.

The meeting continued to other agenda items.