Commission approves removal of decayed London plane tree at Marin School; staff to plant replacements

The commission voted to remove a London plane tree adjacent to Marin School after city arborist staff presented evidence of extensive trunk decay and a recent limb failure.

John Hockridge, the city's arborist (presenting staff), showed photos and a short inspection summary indicating significant internal decay in the central tree of a five‑tree row, including hollow sections the arborist probed with a hand saw. Hockridge said the decay had compromised the trunk and a limb had recently failed; he recommended removal for public‑safety reasons and proposed planting one or more replacement trees nearby. Hockridge said the narrow planting strip and proximity to high‑voltage overhead lines make a tall replanting unsuitable; he recommended species such as the red horse chestnut or an elm cultivar appropriate under utility lines, and noted there is room to add another tree closer to the corner at Marin and Curtis.

A commissioner moved to approve the removal and replacement plan; another commissioner seconded. The commission took a roll‑call vote with the following recorded: Commissioner Abbott — Yes; Commissioner Chang Frank — Yes; Commissioner Martin — Yes; Chair Sherry Sandberg — Yes. The motion passed unanimously.

Why it matters: The tree is on a school frontage and had a recent limb failure; removal and replacement are standard risk‑management actions for urban trees when internal decay threatens structural integrity. Staff will schedule removal during the school holiday to minimize disruption and will return with details on replacement species and planting location.