Should Old Oak Be Saved? Readers Sound Off

Should the Safety Harbor City Commission allow a large old oak tree to be cut down in order to make way fora one-story office building downtown?

The City Commission voted in favor of approving the request at their meeting on July 15, though Commissioner Nancy Besore lamented the fact that the developer could not keep the 60-foot tall tree.

At issue is whether the tree is worth preserving, with officials say that its health is in decline. But some residents say the city should do more to maintain, nurture and preserve its trees.

Chez Funk wrote in the comments section under an article on the city decision: I didn't want to comment here until I had actually gone to see this tree in person. I have to agree with Nancy Besore, and wonder if any of the commissioners took the time to walk 2 blocks for their own inspection.

Jimmy P wrote: Take this one down and plant a few other trees in its place once the building is up. Trees a couple years old...make up for it an I think people will be ok with it.  

Kristin Shea offered a more moderate response: "If the $500 is invested to clean up the tree, can it's condition improve? If so, the tree shoukd be saved. But if it can't be saved then remove it but it should be required that the builder have 2-3 year old oaks planted. Harborites are proud of their oaks."

Added Susan: "The city has a terrible record of oak tree maintenance. Four oak trees were removed by the city adjacent to the museum's brick road on Short Street. One of these trees was 4' around and when it was destroyed, the trunk and most branches were solid oak with no rot at all. "   

Jarine seemed to echo Susan's comments: "We paid a tree trimming company to remove mistletoe and vines from our trees and the trees are doing fine. Trees must be maintained to stay healthy. The owner doesn't want the tree..he states what happens to another tree, may happen to this one; and the city parking encroached on his lot, so he has to move his building closer to the tree. Is there a market for more office space? I see a lot of empty office space in downtown Safety Harbor."