Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Tree Regulation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Resident warns proposed 6-inch tree-caliper rule could cost tens of thousands per lot
Summary
A Lago Vista resident told the Planning & Zoning Commission that a proposed rule reducing protected tree caliper to 6 inches would force removal of dozens of trees on some lots and estimated removal costs of roughly $86,000 (buildable area) to $125,000 (full lot). The commenter said he would sue if such a change were adopted.
A Lago Vista resident told the Planning & Zoning Commission that a proposed change to tree regulations — limiting protected trees to a 6-inch caliper — could impose substantial costs on property owners and pledged legal opposition if the change is adopted.
Mr. Von Olerking, who signed up to speak during the meeting's public-comment period, said he measured trees on one of his lots and counted more than 32 trees over 6 inches in diameter within the buildable area and as many as 48 when including setbacks. He presented a cost estimate for removing trees on that single lot.
"This proposed change would cost approximately $86,000 to remove the trees in the buildable area," Von Olerking said, adding that fully clearing the lot could run about $125,000. He also said only three of the counted trees were oaks and described one protected oak as 10 inches in diameter and centrally located on the lot.
Von Olerking said he would attempt to transplant trees where feasible but warned most homeowners lack the equipment and expertise. He questioned enforcement practicality and criticized replacement-tree practices the city has used in the past.
The commission did not debate or act on tree regulations during this meeting; the comment was entered into the public record for future consideration as part of zoning and tree-policy discussions.
