Get AI Briefings, Transcripts & Alerts on Local & National Government Meetings — Forever.
Owner at 1451 New Britain Ave cleared to remove failing arborvitae, replant fewer specimens
Loading...
Summary
The commission agreed staff can approve a landscape modification at 1451 New Britain Avenue to remove a deteriorated berm and replant fewer, better‑spaced Spring Grove arborvitae; the owner will be responsible for irrigation and replacement warranty.
The commission agreed to allow a site plan modification at 1451 New Britain Avenue to remove failing arborvitae and a berm and to replant a reduced number of larger‑spacing Spring Grove arborvitae.
Staff noted the trees planted under a 2006 approval had died or were in poor health and that the narrow berms prevented adequate water retention. The property owner (on the phone) proposed removing the berm, disposing of the failing plantings and replanting roughly half the original quantity at 6.5–7 feet on center with irrigation and a one‑year replacement expectation.
“Having the berm has compounded and made it more difficult because the berm isn't really big enough,” staff said, explaining water sheets off and the dense 3‑foot spacing contributed to poor survival. Commissioners generally agreed that removing the berm and using wider spacing would give the trees a better chance to establish.
Commissioners asked about warranty and enforcement if new trees failed; staff said the owner would be responsible for irrigation and replanting if necessary and that the landscaping runs with the land as part of the approval conditions. The commission indicated the change is minor in nature and can proceed under staff review.
Next steps: staff will work with the owner to finalize plantings and require the irrigation/maintenance commitments as part of the staff‑level approval.
