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Shade Tree commissioners urge borough to correct tax-bill flyer with incorrect pruning guidance
Summary
Commissioners told the meeting that a tax-bill flyer distributed by the borough includes incorrect pruning guidance (it lists 8 feet as a maximum rather than a minimum clearance). Commissioners asked that the borough use the commission's materials or consult the commission before mailing such advisories.
At the meeting, commissioners raised concerns about a flyer included with borough tax bills that appears to misstate pruning guidance for trees and shrubs. Speaker 1 said the flyer lists a pruning height of "a maximum of 8" feet, which alarmed residents; Speaker 2 corrected that the accepted clearance standard is a minimum of 8 feet.
Commissioners said the flyer is confusing because right-of-way definitions vary by street and because the mailer language led residents to believe many private trees or hedges could be subject to enforcement. Several members recommended the borough use the Shade Tree Commission's previously produced materials and to route drafts of public-facing messaging to the commission for technical review before distribution. Speaker 1 said the commission would draft a follow-up email (for review by commissioners before sending) urging the borough to adopt the commission's educational graphic or to correct the mailed material.
Commissioners emphasized they support enforcement on cases that create sight-line or safety hazards but cautioned that mass communication with inaccurate technical details risks reducing public trust and discouraging tree planting.
