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Gilbert delays tree removals in College Park Country Estates after residents contest town records
Summary
After an extended public hearing, Gilbert staff outlined plans to remove red gum eucalyptus trees identified as safety risks; residents produced easements and minutes they say obligate town maintenance. Council directed staff to review documents and extended homeowner response time to March 31, 2025.
Mayor Bridget Peterson opened a public hearing Dec. 17 on maintenance and potential removal of eucalyptus trees in College Park Country Estates after staff identified spontaneous limb drops and property damage. Jessica Merlo, a town staff member, told the council the town had identified nine eucalyptus trees as hazards (now eight after one was removed) and presented an arborist assessment describing susceptibility to "sudden summer branch drop," a syndrome that can cause unannounced limb failures.
Residents disputed staff findings and the town’s characterization of past agreements. Bridal Wood, a College Park Country Estates resident, said she possesses "an original easement agreement that was signed by the town, which agrees to pay all damages, injuries, and losses…
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