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Commission approves Norfolk Island pine for Library Park after big-leaf maple proves unavailable; process draws criticism
Summary
After staff reported they could not locate the preferred big-leaf maple, the Recreation and Parks Commission voted 3–2 to allow staff to plant a Norfolk Island pine at Library Park. Several commissioners and community advocates said the process did not sufficiently consider native-tree preferences.
The Recreation and Parks Commission voted 3–2 to allow staff to plant a Norfolk Island pine at Library Park after staff said they were unable to locate the big-leaf maple that had been previously recommended.
City staff said they had searched local nurseries, contacted native-plant suppliers in Orange and Los Angeles counties and followed a lead to Northern California; a supplier tied to West Coast Arborist reported no available big-leaf maples. With sourcing unsuccessful, staff recommended planting the Norfolk Island pine, and the commission approved that recommendation by a 3–2 vote.
During discussion, several commissioners and at least one commissioner who voted against the motion criticized the process and said public stakeholders who had advocated for a native tree were not given sufficient notice that staff would recommend switching to a nonnative ornamental. One commissioner said the "process for this was really subpar," and Vice Chair Kelly Watson told the commission she was "beyond disappointed" that the concerns raised by residents who preferred a native tree were not addressed more fully.
Staff explained practical constraints: the big-leaf maple was "not a real popular tree" among local nurseries and availability was low late in the planting season. Commission discussion raised the possibility that planting windows for native species were closing and asked staff to continue looking for alternatives, but commissioners also signaled the desire to begin replacement sooner rather than hold the park longer without a tree.
The motion to proceed with the Norfolk Island pine was introduced from the dais, seconded, and approved by roll call voice with a final tally the clerk recorded as 3–2. Commissioners who opposed the motion noted they would press staff to return with a fuller plan and additional outreach to the community; staff later said they would prepare a more comprehensive report and notify stakeholders before any further changes.
The item drew repeated comment from commissioners that the selection process needed clearer criteria and earlier engagement with residents when the commission revisits tree-selection policy.
