Monroe commission rules tree removals at 175 Cross Hill Road are an "as‑of‑right" activity for this plan

The Monroe Inland Wetland Commission issued a jurisdictional ruling on a tree‑work application for 175 Cross Hill Road (IPU‑26‑1, file 1573), determining the proposed removal and trimming shown on the submitted plan qualifies as an as‑of‑right activity for that one event.

Anthony D'Angelo described the plan and said several spruce trees were standing dead and some trees were leaning. Commissioners emphasized the distinction between maintenance of existing landscaping — which can be as‑of‑right — and removal that significantly alters wetlands or upland review area. "If it's in the wetlands and it's away from the house, not leaning over the house, then it's probably not maintenance," one commissioner said during the discussion; conversely, the dead standing spruces and leaning trees raised safety and hazard concerns.

Commissioner Jim Stewart moved for a jurisdictional ruling that the proposed removal of four leaning trees, removal of three standing-dead trees, and trimming of three additional trees as shown in the application is an as‑of‑right activity; Commissioner Paul Fernandez seconded. The chair called the question and announced the motion carried. Staff said the commission will issue the written determination and that conditions will include prohibiting stump removal and limiting ground disturbance; future removals beyond the current plan will require separate review or permits.

The ruling allows the applicant to schedule the work with the written as‑of‑right authorization and with the stated conditions. The commission advised the applicant to ensure contractors minimize disturbance and return for additional permits if more tree removal is later proposed.