At public comment the council heard from Brian Tataseo, a resident who said a maple tree in the parkway at 440 Center Street had been scheduled for removal by the Shade Tree Commission.

Tataseo said one of two large maples at his property was removed earlier in the year after disease was found. He said Penn Power trimmed the remaining tree near power lines and that the Shade Tree Commission’s Oct. 6 letter recommended removing the second tree, citing protection of power lines that serve city hall and the hospital. Tataseo said local tree-care professionals told him the tree might be preserved with additional trimming and asked the city to reconsider full removal.

A council member explained that the council appoints members to the Shade Tree Commission and that there is a dispute/hearing process before the commission for appeals. Staff and council suggested Tataseo contact the Shade Tree Commission to pursue his request; no council action was taken on the matter at the meeting.

Tataseo thanked the council for its time. The council also reminded residents of upcoming events and municipal dates later in the meeting.