Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Urban Forestry topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Tipp City Council reverses tree-board denial, authorizes removal of large sycamore at 20 Miles Avenue
Summary
After resident testimony about repeated branch failures and property damage, Tipp City Council voted to reverse the tree advisory board's unanimous decision and authorized removal of a large sycamore at 20 Miles Avenue; the tree board said the tree appeared healthy on inspection.
TIPP CITY, Ohio — Tipp City Council on Aug. 19 reversed the tree advisory board's denial and authorized removal of a large street sycamore at 20 Miles Avenue after an appeal and public testimony from the property owner.
Resident Katie Puffer told the council she has sought removal since 2022 because of repeated damage to the sidewalk, falling branches and a May 27, 2024 incident in which a large branch shattered her sister's rear windshield while children were playing nearby. —The idea of what could have happened— — she said — —terrifies me.— Puffer said three of four private tree-service providers she consulted recommended removal and that she would replant one or two smaller, site-appropriate trees.
The tree advisory board, represented at the hearing by Karen Jackson, said the volunteer board (five trained members) inspected the tree in June 2024 and judged it to be healthy. —We cannot recommend the removal of a healthy tree in order to protect the city's canopy,— Jackson said, explaining the board's mission and its focus on safety as the triggering criterion for removal.
Council members questioned both witnesses about sidewalk damage, proximity to power lines, prior inspections and whether the board had observed physical signs of trunk rot or recent large branch failure. Several members said they respected the board's unanimous recommendation but also recognized the resident's repeated concerns about safety and property damage.
After discussion, a council member moved to reverse the tree board's denial; the motion was seconded and passed by roll-call vote, with the clerk recording affirmative responses sufficient to meet the requirement of five affirmative votes needed to overturn the board.
What the meeting record shows: the council voted to reverse the tree board's decision and authorized removal of the sycamore at 20 Miles Avenue. Staff and the tree board indicated removal will be handled by Public Works and that replanting with appropriate, smaller trees was encouraged by the resident.
Direct quotes:
—The idea of what could have happened should my sister and I not acted quickly to move my niece and nephew from under the tree terrifies me,— said Katie Puffer, the property owner.
—We cannot recommend the removal of a healthy tree in order to protect the city's canopy,— said Karen Jackson, representing the tree advisory board.
Next steps: Public Works will coordinate removal and approved replanting with the resident; the council's roll-call and any permits required will be reflected in the official minutes and Public Works scheduling.
