Who's Cutting Down Trees In Cleveland Park?

EAST NASHVILLE, TN — Someone chopped down a large sugar maple tree in Cleveland Park, raising the ire of neighbors and the suspicion of Metro Parks.

Metro Parks told WKRN it became aware of the tree's demise Monday. But Metro's horticulturalist received a tip days earlier from a resident who claimed they overheard a builder say he was going to kill some trees in the East Nashville park. (For more updates on this story and free news alerts for your neighborhood, sign up for your local Middle Tennessee Patch morning newsletter.)

"Apparently the trees would be blocking his view from a new, three-story home he is building," the tipster wrote, according to the station.

The sender of the email, who wanted to remain anonymous, told WKRN that Tom Keeseewas the builder in question. Keesee denied cutting the tree or having the tree cut. Metro councilman Scott Davis, who represents the area, told the station he is "positive" Keesee wasn't responsible.

“Not because I saw him do it or didn’t do it, it’s just his character and just stuff he’s done for other people in this community," Davis, who said he found out about the tree Friday but didn't inform the parks department until Monday, told the station.

Metro Parks is investigating. Whoever cut the tree could be charged with vandalism and possibly face a fine.

Image via Metro Parks Department