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Kingston council rejects proposed tree ordinance after cemetery and property‑owner concerns
Summary
The council voted 8–0 to reject the proposed tree ordinance after public testimony from Wiltwick Cemetery and others urging more work, citing the need to respect private property rights and prioritize outreach and incentives.
On June 2 the Kingston Common Council adopted Resolution 91, rejecting the proposed tree ordinance and pausing its progress for further work.
Matthew Cerny, executive director of Wiltwick Cemetery, told the council the cemetery and other property stewards are not opposed to trees but warned about unintended consequences for private property owners and cemetery stewardship. "I believe there is a path forward that can both encourage responsible tree preservation and maintain fairness, practicality, and flexibility for the people who live and work in our city," Cerny said during public comment.
Cerny thanked the mayor and council for listening and urged the city to focus on outreach, education and financial incentives rather than punitive measures. Council members indicated that the decision to reject the ordinance reflected broad concerns about the current draft and a desire for more collaboration before moving forward.
The clerk confirmed the council adopted the resolution rejecting the proposed tree ordinance, describing the action as "rejecting the proposed tree ordinance" and noting the council was "moving just a little backwards" to allow more work on the proposal. The vote was unanimous, 8 to 0.
Council members indicated staff and relevant committees will revisit the ordinance with additional stakeholder engagement and possible incentive‑based approaches.
