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Tree commission authorizes staff to select street tree for 2772 Powell amid site constraints
Summary
After debate about utility lines and tree size, the Bexley Tree Commission voted to authorize staff to choose an appropriate street tree species for 2772 Powell rather than plant the originally selected shantung maple.
The Bexley Tree Commission voted to allow city staff member Grant to select an appropriate street tree for 2772 Powell, citing unusual site constraints that make the originally selected shantung maple inappropriate.
Grant said a resident at 2772 Powell asked for a city-planted street tree but that the site's conditions — two houses adjacent to the planting strip, a streetlight, downspouts and a power line about 15 feet from the grass — made planting a medium or large tree impractical. “I had a residence at 2772 Powell… the power lines are about 15 feet from the grass,” Grant said, adding that he told the resident he would not plant the shantung maple recommended for the site and that the matter should come before the commission.
Commission members discussed whether to accept a smaller ornamental species at the location and noted precedent concerns about allowing ornamentals between the sidewalk and the street. Members named several smaller species that might fit the conditions, including yellowwood, crabapple, redbud and serviceberry; one participant said hawthorn and horse chestnut were possible but not preferred. Commissioners also noted that certain older cultivar types (referred to in discussion as Tartarian/Bridal maples) are no longer widely available.
A motion to postpone the decision until the next meeting and to inspect the site was put forward and seconded but was defeated on a voice vote. Mary then moved that Grant be authorized to decide on an appropriate street tree for the site because of its unique circumstances; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote. The commission directed staff to accept suggestions from the property owner and to communicate options with staff member Brent (referred to by participants) or other staff as appropriate.
Commission staff also reported a separate inspection of trees planted the previous year; staff said they inspected each tree, corrected many mulch-volcano problems and compiled notes that will be shared with the commission.
