Tree commission approves funds for two memorial plantings, to coordinate with city arborist

The Holly Springs Tree Commission on June 10 moved to authorize funds for two memorial tree plantings and to have city staff coordinate the work with the city arborist.

Speaker 2, a member of the commission, told colleagues the commission had received two memorial tree requests and requested allocation of funds ‘‘typically about $500’’ per planting to cover the tree, supplies and materials. The requests cover plantings at JD Owens Park and Karen Johnson Barnett Park. Speaker 2 said the commission has previously used a similar allocation for a planting at Barrett Memorial Park and mentioned that mulch and other supplies were purchased separately.

Speaker 1 asked whether the commission should allocate funds at the June meeting; Speaker 2 recommended approving the allocation now and said the arborist would work with recipients to schedule plantings for October or November. When asked about ceremonies, members agreed families would be invited and that commission members would attend for a photo opportunity.

Speaker 1 moved to allocate up to $500 for each memorial tree planting (JD Owens Park and Karen Johnson Barnett Park). Speaker 3 seconded. Members were asked "All in favor?" and voices in the room said "Aye." The transcript does not include a clear roll-call tally; the motion was treated as approved on the floor. The commission directed staff and the arborist to finalize tree species and scheduling.

The commission noted some inconsistencies in the transcript about spoken dollar figures; the motion as recorded by the maker specified $500 per planting.