Candidates debate tree protections and building‑code limits; demolition fees broadly opposed

Canopy trees and green space drew sustained discussion at the Village of Martin's Additions forum, with candidates framing tree protection as both an aesthetic and stormwater‑mitigation priority.

Arthur Alexander (incumbent council member) described past tree‑committee work and said the village has planted “more than 200 trees” under earlier programs. He suggested exploring building‑code ideas such as limits on non‑permeable surface—he offered 30 percent as an illustrative figure used elsewhere—while warning any change needs study and trade‑off analysis.

Several candidates favored strengthening enforcement of existing code and improving clarity around new stormwater devices rather than immediately adopting broad new prohibitions on private property. Jeff Blander noted the village is a Tree City and that the current tree manager and arborist perform diligence on public trees; he urged balancing property owners’ rights with preservation goals. Matt Kanter and John Zachary said they would be reluctant to impose heavy constraints that suddenly make it harder for existing homeowners to improve their properties and stressed targeted measures and incentives.

When asked whether they would support a substantial demolition or tear‑down fee to deter large speculative rebuilds, all candidates who answered said no—preferring other design controls, enforcement, or targeted zoning/permitting changes rather than a new fee that would affect private owners’ ability to renovate or expand.

The conversation linked trees, impervious‑surface limits, and stormwater policy: candidates signaled openness to measures that combine incentives, clearer enforcement, and careful code changes for new construction, while opposing blunt financial penalties that would apply retroactively.