Council hears Shade Tree Commission update on ash treatment; members raise e-scooter safety concerns

On Aug. 14 volunteers from the Shade Tree Commission treated about a dozen ash trees throughout Defiance parks and city properties to slow the emerald ash borer, councilmember Mast reported at the Aug. 26 meeting.

Mast credited the commission’s leadership, specifically Rob Saragin, and described locations treated including Triangle Park, Kingsbury Park, Veterans Memorial Park and near the library. He said the treatment is a biannual effort and that crews drill holes, place ports and inject insecticide into the trunk based on trunk diameter. “Roughly a tree about 18, 20 inches will probably get 6 or 8 holes drilled in,” Mast said, describing the application process.

Separately, councilmember Rusty raised concerns about young people operating e-scooters on sidewalks and streets, noting several Facebook reports of accidents and citing observations of children riding at speeds he estimated at 10–15 mph without helmets. He asked staff to check applicable rules on where scooters may be ridden and whether age limits or enforcement practices apply. “There is a concern also to try to prevent something that could affect the young kid’s life,” Rusty said.

Why it matters

The Shade Tree Commission work aims to extend the life of ash trees in public areas by slowing infestation. The e-scooter discussion flagged potential public-safety issues involving minors; the council requested staff follow-up on regulations and enforcement so the council can consider next steps.

What was not decided

No formal action or ordinance on e-scooter regulation was proposed or adopted at the meeting; the item was raised for council awareness and potential future staff research.