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Normandy Park council approves removal of five deteriorated trees at City Hall Park, 5–2
Summary
After extended debate over safety and aesthetics, the Normandy Park council voted 5–2 to authorize a contract to remove five failing trees at City Hall Park and directed staff to seek attractive replacement species and notify nearby neighbors before work begins.
The Normandy Park City Council voted 5–2 on April 14 to authorize the city manager to execute a contract to remove five deteriorated trees at City Hall Park, citing repeated branch failures and public-safety concerns.
Ken Carter, the city’s public works director, said the five trees were “topped” decades ago and have been shedding substantial branches. Staff and two arborists inspected the trees and recommended removal. Carter told the council the low responsible bid for removal, stump grinding and haul-off was $12,574.20 and said the city expects to offset part of the cost by selling the old vehicle used in stormwater work.
The proposal prompted divided responses. Councilmember Susan West said she respected staff and the parks commission’s work but would not support removing all five trees: “I won’t be voting for it,” she said, adding that neighbors should be notified because the work will be loud and will change nearby canopy. Councilmember McEvoy likewise said he was conflicted, acknowledging public-safety concerns for hazardous trees but expressing hesitation about removing multiple mature specimens without more justification.
Other council members emphasized safety. Councilmember Jack Lamanna described narrowly avoided incidents when large limbs fell near cars and people, saying those risks supported removal. Councilmembers and staff also discussed replacement planting; council and parks staff agreed to prioritize “compelling and attractive” species to soften the canopy loss.
The motion authorizing the city manager to execute the contract with the tree surgeon passed 5–2. Councilmembers asked that staff notify neighbors across from City Hall before work begins; staff said the current plan is to proceed the following week, weather permitting.
The vote authorizes removal, stump grinding and haul-off by the low responsible bidder and directs the parks commission and staff to select replacement species and coordinate neighbor notification. No formal replacement planting contract was approved at the meeting.
