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Shade Tree volunteers pause spring planting as borough clarifies rules; nonprofit partner will cover private-yard tree costs
Summary
Shade Tree Commission members said spring plantings were canceled after the borough limited plantings to the right of way; a nonprofit called Fongi will fund trees planted off the right of way so volunteers can continue fall plantings and outreach.
During public comment on March 24, Shade Tree Commission members told the Infrastructure Committee they were asked to restrict planting to the borough right of way, which led them to cancel a planned spring planting coordinated with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society.
Commission members described volunteer events including a pruning demonstration and an April 11 volunteer appreciation event at which the mayor will read a proclamation to maintain Tree City USA status. They said the commission typically plants about 20–30 trees at a time and that one speaker estimated the commission has planted roughly 480 trees since joining the commission.
Borough staff said they will continue to cover planting costs for trees installed within the right of way; for trees planted outside the right of way, a nonprofit partner identified in the meeting as Fongi (a 501(c)(3)) has committed to covering the gap with private donations. Staff said the change is administrative and should not materially change the mechanics of the volunteer program, and that the borough will work with the commission on outreach and education related to an upcoming vegetation-removal program.
Commission and staff speakers asked the committee for continued coordination as the Shade Tree Commission reorganizes and the borough clarifies ordinance updates. The committee thanked volunteers and said it wishes to strengthen communication and partnership going forward.
