Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
After heated debate, Kyle council opts against transplant; will pursue planting and memorials
Summary
Following months of study, council declined to bid a $499,000 live‑oak transplant and instead approved a package combining options to not relocate the tree, create artistic markers, and plan new plantings and land acquisition. Staff had warned relocation could cost $730,000+ and require weeks‑long road closures and water line work.
A long, often emotional discussion over whether to move a large, historic live oak — affectionately called “Jolene” — ended with council choosing not to proceed with a full transplant and instead directing staff to return with options to memorialize and replant.
Assistant City Manager Amber Smythe summarized arborist and feasibility reports that concluded the tree is in fair to good condition and could be moved using a large root ball (estimated 40‑foot diameter) and heavy lifting equipment. Environmental Design provided a…
Already have an account? Log in
Subscribe to keep reading
Unlock the rest of this article — and every article on Citizen Portal.
- Unlimited articles
- AI-powered breakdowns of topics, speakers, decisions, and budgets
- Instant alerts when your location has a new meeting
- Follow topics and more locations
- 1,000 AI Insights / month, plus AI Chat
