Resident raises concern over tree‑removal notice for elderly widow and urges vegetation clearance at Sepulveda Canyon park

During public comment, Richard Collier of Crest Bridal described a recent code enforcement letter received by the widow of Phil Belleville, who lives on Crest Road East. Collier said the widow, in her mid‑90s and in failing health with a caregiver, was frightened by notices that trees on her property needed removal. Collier said the letter came from Noah, the city’s contract code enforcement officer, and that staff had told him the process includes multiple letters in a fixed sequence.

"Please don't terrorize further this lady," Collier urged the council, noting that the city had indicated the third and final letter was scheduled to go out the next day and that the matter would be referred to BBK so an attorney from that firm could coordinate with the woman or a designated representative.

Collier also raised wildfire concerns about a city park at the head of what becomes Sepulveda Canyon. He said an area of roughly seven to eight acres — and a separate 16‑acre parcel that runs to the city border — is choked with highly flammable brush and, he argued, would benefit from creating a 200‑foot fire break on either side of a V‑shaped channel where fires could move quickly uphill. He described the potential fire path and the stand of eucalyptus that could carry fire toward neighborhoods and Crest.

Council members and staff discussed the challenge of enforcing vegetation removal when property owners do not respond to notices, and staff reiterated that some enforcement steps (receivership, abatement warrants) can be lengthy and may lead property owners to hire attorneys. Collier told the council he would assist in communicating letters to the widow to reduce her distress.

This item was a public comment; no formal council action was taken on Collier's remarks during the meeting.