Committee approves Blaine Sutton for tree board and backs requested tree removal after public comment

The Long Beach Board of Aldermen voted to appoint Blaine Sutton to the city’s tree board and approved a planning decision to remove a tree at a private property after a public comment period and discussion of prior board conduct.

Mayor (chairing the meeting) nominated Blaine Sutton for the tree board. A committee member objected, saying Sutton previously resigned from the board and that a former appointee had reported feeling intimidated by the prior tree-board atmosphere. "I don't care what the board decides either way, but me, personally, I can't support your appointment," the committee member said during discussion. After a roll-call-style vote the motion to appoint Sutton passed.

Later in the meeting the board considered a planning/development request to remove a tree. Resident Steve Mink, who gave his name and address during public comment, told the board he believed the tree was unhealthy, interfering with power lines and impeding drainage. He also said the tree "hasn't flowered" and questioned whether it was a southern magnolia. Board members noted the tree board had voted to remove the tree and moved to approve removal; the motion carried.

Board members clarified scope and limits: temporary repairs or narrowly defined removal were discussed (the tree board's approval and property-line location were cited), and the board confirmed the vote authorized removal rather than a full replacement plan.

The board did not record a precise tally tied to named members in the transcript for either the appointment or the tree-removal motion; minutes will record the formal vote results. The board also asked staff to coordinate with property owners and public-works staff as needed to implement the removal safely.

The board moved on to other agenda items after confirming both motions had carried.