McIntosh council approves two tree‑removal requests, clarifies when council can act as tree committee

The McIntosh Town Council voted unanimously on April 15 to approve two tree‑removal applications, for properties listed as Ryman and Dumas, and discussed the circumstances under which the council may serve as the town’s tree committee.

The approvals came during the council’s regular meeting at the McIntosh Community Center. Cllr Jones moved to approve the Ryman application and Cllr Medeiros seconded; the motion passed unanimously. VP Mullikin moved to approve the Dumas request, with Cllr Jones seconding; that motion also passed unanimously.

The council’s action was set against a brief exchange after public comment about whether the council can act as the tree committee. Resident Patty Dodd asked about prior referendums and whether the council could fill the committee role. President Ciotti said the charter governs the committee’s authority. Town Manager Gonzalez said a sitting council member who wants to run for a committee seat must resign to run. Mayor Scott explained the rule exists "so that those committees and boards can continue to operate even if there are no volunteers on the boards."

Roll call earlier in the meeting showed President Ciotti, Vice President Mullikin, Cllr Jones, Cllr Medeiros and Mayor Scott present; Cllr Deaderick was listed as absent. The motions on the two tree‑removal requests passed by unanimous vote of those present.

Council members and staff did not record any amendments to the approved permits. A separate agenda item on a proposed Roberts Acres sign was raised later and will require a future vote, and no other immediate follow‑up action on the tree permits was recorded.