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Cerritos homeowner raises tree and infrastructure concerns; commission adopts nuisance resolution for Park Avenue property
Summary
Marilyn Jackson, owner of a Park Avenue property, told the commission that a large parkway tree has caused water‑line damage and that city responses to her requests for tree work were limited. Staff explained the arborist review and appeal path and recommended a resolution; the commission adopted a 21‑day abatement period.
Marilyn Jackson, who identified herself as the owner of the property in the 13400 block of Park Avenue, told the Cerritos Property Preservation Commission on May 20, 2025 that a large tree in the parkway has damaged a water line and that she has not received satisfactory follow up from city staff on previous phone requests to remove or trim the tree.
Jackson said she replaced a water line in October 2023 for about $4,400 because tree roots had ruptured the line. She told the commission she does not live at the address full time and that her son has been handling some maintenance tasks. Jackson said she received mailed notice(s) and was aware of staff communications but asked the commission for consideration given the tree and root issues.
Staff response and process: Brian Lane (presenting code enforcement officer) and Daryl Evans (staff liaison) explained the city’s formal process for parkway tree removal and how it interacts with nuisance enforcement. Staff said the typical route is: (1) file a written removal request with Public Works/Community Development so the city arborist can inspect; (2) if the arborist determines the tree should remain, the homeowner can either pay to remove it privately or file an appeal; (3) appeals can come to the Property Preservation Commission and then to city council if necessary. Staff emphasized that the arborist’s evaluation often favors preserving trees but that owners retain appeal rights and may seek removal at their own expense if they choose.
Action taken: Staff recommended adoption of a resolution finding the Park Avenue property to be a nuisance under Cerritos Municipal Code chapter 6.2 and setting a 21‑day abatement period. The commission adopted the resolution by a 5–0 vote. Staff told Jackson that a code enforcement officer (Clarence Stevens) would follow up with written instructions on the tree‑removal request process and that city staff would continue to work with the owner on remediation plans.
Why it matters: Parkway trees are maintained to protect neighborhood character and street infrastructure, but mature roots can damage private water lines and create difficult choices for property owners. The commission’s action begins an abatement timetable tied to municipal enforcement; staff emphasized that fines apply only if the owner fails to make demonstrable progress within the abatement period.
Speakers and attributions: Marilyn Jackson (property owner) described the water‑line repair cost and the difficulty of getting a response via phone. Brian Lane and Daryl Evans presented the staff inspection history and outlined the arborist and appeals process. Code enforcement officer Clarence Stevens was identified by staff as the follow‑up contact for the owner.
Next steps: Staff will provide Jackson with written guidance on requesting arborist review and the formal removal/appeal process, monitor progress on landscape and parkway maintenance, and return the case to the commission if the owner does not demonstrate progress within the 21‑day abatement period.
