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Tree Commission authorizes staff to select street tree for 2772 Powell after debate over ornamentals
Summary
The Bexley Tree Commission discussed a resident request for a smaller ornamental street tree at 2772 Powell, debated precedent and rights in the public right-of-way, and voted to authorize staff member Grant to select an appropriate species.
The Bexley Tree Commission voted to authorize staff member Grant to decide the appropriate street tree species for 2772 Powell after discussing power-line constraints and concerns about setting a precedent for ornamental trees in the public right-of-way.
Grant described the location as "a very unique location" where the power lines are about 15 feet from the grass and where a street light and downspouts limit planting options. He told the commission the property already has a large tulip poplar in the front yard and a large city silver maple to the right, and said "this spot really only just doesn't make sense for a medium sized, you know, large tree."
A resident had asked whether a smaller ornamental species could be planted there. Several commissioners warned that allowing a smaller ornamental between the sidewalk and the street could create a precedent prompting similar future requests. One commissioner recommended tabling the item and viewing the site in person; another urged that Grant be allowed to make the call.
After a motion to postpone the item was defeated, Commissioner Mary moved to let Grant select an appropriate street tree for the site. The commission approved the motion by voice; an exact tally was not specified in the transcript. The motion authorizes staff discretion given the site's constraints and the commission's understanding that any future exceptions would need commission approval.
Separately, commission staff reported on an inspection of trees planted last year. Grant (or staff) inspected recently planted trees, found "very few mulch volcanoes" among new trees and fixed what he could, and made notes for follow-up. Staff said they will re-inspect next year and aim to document mulch-volcano locations more precisely.
The commission discussed the city—s authority over right-of-way plantings; a commissioner recalled that the ordinance gives the city the right to plant and that residents cannot plant in the right-of-way without city permission. Commissioners agreed to notify the resident that ornamentals are not generally appropriate in the right-of-way but that staff will accept species suggestions for this unique site and further discuss options with the property owner.
