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Planning board approves DPW’s posted scenic‑road tree removals after hearing
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Summary
The planning board closed a consolidated public hearing on the DPW list of five scenic‑road trees (four removals, one trimming) and voted to approve the removals after hearing explanations from the tree warden and residents, who asked for careful replacement and inventory work going forward.
The Southborough Planning Board on April 27 closed a consolidated public hearing and approved the DPW’s posted list of five trees slated for removal or trimming under the town’s scenic‑road rules. Chris, the town tree warden, explained that each tree had been posted in advance and that no written objections had been received as of the hearing.
Residents asked for more detail on several entries, including a large pine on Woodland Road and an oak on Lovers Lane, and raised questions about replacement planting and a broader tree inventory. "With pine trees, if you see visible cavity the problem can show up quickly," Chris said, describing how cavities and winter storm loads can make pines hazardous. Several board members and residents urged the DPW to prioritize replacement planning and to use the emerging GIS inventory to help locate suitable planting sites.
After discussion the board voted to close the public hearing and approve the DPW removals as recommended. The chair read the motion and the board recorded its approval in the meeting minutes.
What happens next: The DPW will proceed with removals and coordinate replacement planning and inventory work with Open Space and other volunteers. The planning board requested follow‑up on the town tree‑inventory and replanting program so that replacement opportunities are identified and offered to widened community benefit.
