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Residents and tree commissioners raise alarm after variance permits removal of large live oaks at Hillcrest
Summary
A public commenter and tree-commission members urged review and possible legal or procedural responses after a Board of Adjustment variance cleared the way to remove or severely damage eight mature live oaks at the Hillcrest public-housing redevelopment, and staff outlined public-record steps for review.
Joshua, a resident and arborist who addressed the Wilmington Tree Commission during public comment, said a variance issued to the Wilmington Housing Authority would remove six specimen live-oak trees and severely affect the root systems of two others at the Hillcrest redevelopment, likely dooming those trees.
"Really talking about 8 live oak trees that are greater than 24 inches in diameter of breast height," Joshua said, raising concern that the variance undercuts the purpose of the city's tree ordinance and asking whether any of the trees are on the heritage-tree list.
The commission and staff described the Board of Adjustment decision process and public-record options. Hailey, who handles commission materials and web accessibility, confirmed that minutes and the…
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