Skip to content

Healthy trees on the block

Editor: I attended a meeting at White Rock City Hall regarding eight healthy trees on the corner of Balsam Street and Semiahmoo Avenue.

Editor:

On the evening of July 16, I attended a meeting at White Rock City Hall regarding eight healthy trees on the corner of Balsam Street and Semiahmoo Avenue.

I am not a resident of White Rock but live in South Surrey and am concerned with the preservation of all healthy, mature trees.

The owner of the adjacent property stated that the majority of these trees were well-established on the boulevard prior to her purchase of her property 30 years ago.

A number of people present at the meeting were upset regarding the unsightliness of the undergrowth, but it seemed their main concern was for their own property values and reduced views.

An arborist present at the meeting stated that all the trees were healthy.

The mayor and council voted to allow these eight healthy trees to be cut down. It is my understanding that this is strictly against going green and the protection of our trees.

If this is allowed here, then this sets a precedent for White Rock’s future tree policy and appeals. Is any healthy tree safe in White Rock?

J. Johnston, Surrey