Greenberg parks commissioner defends plan to remove trees at Bob Gold Park; board orders consultant review

Parks Commissioner Casey asked the Town Board on Aug. 20 to approve the selective removal of eight red maple trees at Bob Gold Park to address crowding, exposed roots that create tripping hazards and three trees growing into power and data lines.

Casey said the trees were planted about 30 years ago and that maintaining all 12 in the small park risks long‑term canopy loss. "By taking down these eight trees, the remaining four trees will flourish," Casey said, adding that foresters and the town arborist support thinning to improve overall tree health.

Several residents and board members expressed concern about removing mature shade trees and about the town paying for outside opinions when the town has a certified arborist. To respond to those concerns, Casey scheduled a regional arborist consultant (Wayne Cahillie) to examine the park at 1 p.m. Monday and provide an independent assessment; Casey said the consultant charges about $90 an hour for such work. The commissioner also agreed to post signage at the park explaining the rationale and to consider a rendering of the park after the work so residents can see the projected outcome.

Board discussion reflected a split: some members said staff and the forester’s unanimous recommendation was sufficient and cautioned against routinely seeking external opinions; others said a second opinion would reassure residents and reduce controversy. The board did not authorize immediate removal at the meeting; it accepted the consultant visit and asked staff to return with the consultant’s report.

Next steps: consultant site visit on Monday and a follow‑up report to the Town Board; staff to post explanatory signage and consider written or visual materials showing the park after thinning.