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Tree regulation divides Bedford historic-district residents; commission weighs scaling back oversight
Summary
A lengthy, often contentious discussion at the Historic District Commission focused on whether to relax tree regulations (currently triggering review at >15-inch live tree diameter or clear-cutting 1,500 sq ft), with public commenters urging both deregulatory and protective approaches; commissioners agreed to continue deliberations at a workshop.
Tree regulation emerged as the most contentious agenda item at the Bedford Historic District Commission’s June 30 meeting, drawing sustained public comment and detailed commissioner discussion.
Staff explained the existing regulatory triggers: commission review is required to remove a live tree greater than 15 inches in diameter and for clearing 1,500 square feet or more. "Currently, you have to come to the commission if you're going to cut down one live tree more than 15 inches in diameter," Chair Kelly Toap said while framing the options. Commissioners and several residents debated whether the commission…
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