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Residents press Elko County for a public plan to address dying trees in Lamoille Grove; commissioners add discussion to October agenda
Summary
During public comment Liz Todd urged action on tree removals at Lamoille Grove, citing safety concerns; staff said there is no approved plan but removal quotes of $35,000–$100,000 exist and commissioners agreed to place a formal agenda item in October for public input and expert advice.
A resident at Thursday’s Elko County commission meeting urged the board to publish a clear plan and schedule for removing and replacing dying trees in Lamoille Grove, saying falling trees are a safety concern and that the public needs a visible succession plan.
"Have you scheduled the tree removal? Have you contacted a licensed landscaper or a landscape architect to create a plan, a design, a list of suggested trees, a succession plan for annual upkeep?" Liz Todd asked. She also urged the county to provide a public layout of proposed species and planting quantities to encourage donations and community involvement.
Amanda (county staff) responded that there is not an approved plan at present and that the county has received "a couple of different quotes ranging anywhere from about $35,000 to a $100,000 for that tree removal." Commissioners discussed timing — with several noting removals should avoid disrupting summer events such as the Renaissance Fair and the Pumpkin Festival — and agreed to add Lamoille Grove to the Oct. 15 agenda to gather local expertise and public input.
Commissioners emphasized the value of a design process over ad hoc removal. One commissioner said a landscape architect is "absolutely essential" while others suggested a workshop and a committee to work with parks and maintenance staff. The board also noted the county can accept donations and that prior fundraising and some tree trimming have already occurred.
Next step: the commission directed staff to place Lamoille Grove on the October meeting agenda so local experts and community organizations can be invited to contribute to a formal plan. The county intends to evaluate bids for removal and coordinate design, funding and schedule before any large‑scale removal work.
