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Commission recommends sites and pricing check for developer-donated trees as resident program sells 92 units
Summary
The Shade Tree Commission reported a record 92 trees sold through its resident purchase program, walked planting sites at Fairhaven Fields, and recommended prioritizing developer-donated trees from a Sunoco project for a high-visibility 'snow cone' location while staff obtains quotes and confirms the planning-board stipulation on caliper and payment.
The Shade Tree Commission on April 1 reported its resident tree-buying program sold 92 trees this season and discussed where to plant developer-donated replacement trees tied to a 2023 planning-board resolution.
"We are up to 92 trees," the Chair said, describing the mix of species including Maples, Kwanzan cherries, redbuds and several fruit trees. Commissioners said the figure marks the program's most successful year to date.
Commission members described a site walk at Fairhaven Fields with the borough arborist to refine specific planting locations. The Chair said the team identified a prominent area east of the tennis courts — the so-called "snow cone" spot — as the most straightforward site for immediate planting, and suggested placing three large shade trees with a cluster of redbuds nearby.
Members spent substantial time debating trees required under the planning-board resolution accompanying a new Sunoco station. "It's four trees from Sunoco, which they will pay into the fund," the Chair said, noting the resolution called for four 4-inch caliper trees but that the contractor and nursery availability may make smaller-caliper trees more practical.
Commissioners asked staff to obtain vendor quotes to compare the cost of four 4-inch caliper trees versus a greater number of smaller (2—2.5-inch) specimens, and to confirm whether the planning-board stipulation allows an equivalent substitution. The Clerk said the contractor on the project bid sheet will provide the trees and marked planting locations with spray paint; deer protection will be provided for the new plantings.
Several members emphasized canopy loss from the removal of older trees at the site and urged the Commission to press planning staff and the developer for the highest tree value possible under the original stipulation. One commissioner recommended getting a dollar estimate for the four 4-inch trees and then buying as many smaller-caliper trees as the funding would allow if the developer's payment is a fixed amount.
The Commission also discussed procurement timing: whether to order through the fall resident-buying program or to have Fernbrook nursery supply and install the trees. The Chair recommended prioritizing the easiest site for the donated trees and then using Commission funds if needed to complete a broader planting plan.
Next steps the Commission identified include: (1) asking planning staff to confirm the developer payment amount and any strictness in the 4-inch requirement, (2) getting vendor pricing for 4-inch versus smaller-caliper trees, and (3) preparing a planting and maintenance plan (including stump grinding and invasive removal) that aligns with borough budgets and DPW capacity.
