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Commission lifts enforcement order for 40 June Street Terrace after homeowner describes insect‑related tree losses
Summary
After a homeowner described tree mortality from a previous invasive insect outbreak and years of interrupted communications, the Worcester Conservation Commission voted to lift an enforcement order tied to tree cutting at 40 June Street Terrace.
The Worcester Conservation Commission voted on Oct. 20 to lift an enforcement order issued in 2021 for tree cutting observed at 40 June Street Terrace.
Why it matters: lifting the order resolves a multi‑year enforcement record tied to tree removal that staff said stemmed from earlier activity; the decision closes the file after staff review and a conversation with the property owner.
Homeowner account and staff review Judy Solomon Biyendo, identified herself as the property owner, described a period beginning in 2017–2018 when an outbreak of wood‑boring beetles (referenced in the meeting as longhorn beetles) caused tree mortality on and near her property. She told the commission she communicated with city staff at the time and that family bereavement and other interruptions limited follow‑up. “Those long beetle bugs... they were around those grounds, and there was guys with vests going around and some... a lot of those trees got infected,” Solomon Biyendo said.
Staff said the enforcement order dated to tree cutting in 2021; outreach efforts this year located the homeowner and staff recommended lifting the order because site issues were considered resolved. The commission asked staff and the homeowner about the location of the remaining dead trees and the proximity of conservation land and a nearby trail; staff clarified that standing dead trees in regulated areas are subject to permitting but that emergency certifications can be issued when trees pose an immediate hazard.
Commission action After discussion the commission voted to lift the enforcement order; roll call votes were recorded as aye by Commissioner Stuart Kirschner, Commissioner Lindsey Nystrom and Chair Diane Frittone.
Next steps Staff told the homeowner she would receive confirmation that the enforcement order has been lifted. Staff also advised residents that if a standing dead tree poses a hazard, they should contact the Division of Planning and Regulatory Services for guidance on emergency removal procedures and mitigation expectations.
