The commission approved COA2501053 for 940 Hamlet on Nov. 10, allowing tree removal and confirming the applicant’s proposed replacement species (a red-point bridal maple), while flagging concerns that the tree’s roots are integrated into a nearby retaining wall.

Staff explained commissioners’ earlier concerns that the applicant’s initial tree choice was not a shade tree and that drainage and removal steps needed clarification. The applicant revised the selection to a red-point bridal maple, which staff said is an acceptable shade-tree replacement. Commissioners remained concerned the retaining wall could be affected by root removal and discussed whether replacement or remediation would be required.

A motion passed to approve COA2501053 with the condition that staff notify the applicant of the possible retaining-wall instability; if the retaining wall is destabilized during removal, the applicant is to return to staff and provide remediation information. The motion recorded one abstention and verbal approval afterward; a numerical roll-call tally is not specified in the transcript.