GNV is a city of tree huggers. It has ever been thus.
And that’s not a bad thing. GNV has enjoyed a “Tree City USA” designation for some 45 years. It is a jealously guarded Arbor Foundation-awarded honor that is a considerable source of community pride.
So why would anyone be surprised that, whenever standing trees – especially mature ones – are threatened by development, right-of-way clearing or for any number of other reasons, the tree huggers are likely to show up in force with their signs, hugs and activism.
And, really, who would want it any other way in Tree City USA? When are trees never worth fighting for?
There is no arguing that “treehugger” intervention prevented the City’s removal of a mature tree on NE 1st Ave. And that the streetscaping modifications made to spare that tree – even at considerable additional expense – ultimately enhanced downtown’s attractiveness and economic viability.
As it happens, the City of GNV once again finds itself in the “save our trees” crosshairs. Former County Commissioner Robert Hutchinson’s column faulting the City for unnecessary tree removal near The Streetery and on NE 9th Street has elicited an outpouring of critical comments on Facebook.
This followed closely by news reports of Riceland residents protesting the removal of more than 500 trees to make way for construction of a new fire station.
City officials maybe tempted to downplay or rationalize this latest wave of criticisms:
Yes, mistakes were made, but for every tree removed, hundreds of new ones are planted.
It’s unfortunate, but some trees have to go in the interest of public safety or other higher priorities.
Or the old standby: Protestors are just the ‘usual suspects’ whose priorities do not necessarily reflect broader public opinion or concerns.
Don’t go there, City. It’s counterproductive at best, self-defeating at worst.
Instead, let’s seize on this as an opportunity to reaffirm GNV’s commitment to being Tree City USA now and forever more.
And not by official proclamation, apologetic speeches or promises to do better going forward.
No, let’s have a serious community conversation about trees.
What is GNV doing right to maintain and expand its tree cover? What is it doing wrong. How can it do better?
Let’s closely examine all of the relevant ordinances, regulations and procedures involved in determining when or if trees must be removed. Let’s look at what peer cities do. Let’s enlist the experts at UF. Let’s measure ourselves against best practices across the nation.
In short, let’s right now set the official goal of reaching GNV’s 50th Tree City USA Anniversary with assurances that all relevant City ordinances, regulations and procedures are sound, appropriate and well thought out.
How to do this? Call it a Blue (Green?) Ribbon Commission. Say we’re gonna draft a GNV Tree Master Plan for the 21st Century. Sponsor forums, invite stakeholders and neighbors. Make a big deal out of it.
Hell yes, we’re Tree City USA. Why wouldn’t we make a big deal out of it?
GNV is a city of tree huggers, after all. Wanna make something of it?
Fine, then let’s make something of it.
FreeGNV 