HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997-1008 Tree MINASHLAND TREE COMMISSION
MINUTES
OCTOBER 8, 1997
II.
III.
IV.
Meeting called to order at 7:00 p.m.
Members Present:
Donn Todt
Karen Brenten
January Jennings (Acting Chair)
Robbin Pearce (Staff)
Approval of Minutes - September minutes were approved.
Guests: Steve Morjig and Tom Giordano (PA 97-084)
Pete Seda (Ashland Forest Commission)
Sandra Hoxie, Isabel Sickels and Richard and Sally
Montgomery (Oak Trees at 160 Church)
Old Business:
A. Council Presentation - Jennings will call KenCairn and Todt to meet and
draft the presentation for the December 2nd council meeting.
B. Effects of Ashland Creek Flood - Todt reported that essentially all the
debris has been removed and the Parks Dept is starting over on the upstream
and east side of the creek between the bridge and the wind wall. The west
side above the Winburn Way crossing has been denuded of shrubs and trees.
A request was made to have the Tree Commission recommend the planting
of trees along the west side. If pedestrian amenities including sidewalks, curb
and gutter are included, a reasonable situation could be created for street
trees. These trees would, of course, require root barriers. Karen Brenten will
review the situation and draft a letter to all responsible parties.
C. Selection of Projects - Tabled until November meeting.
D. Parkrow Width - Tabled until November meeting.
New Business:
A. Planning Actions for Site Review:
1. PA 97-098 (474 1/2 North Main ) - The commission felt that all
ASHLAND TREE COMMISSION
MINUTES
OCTOBER 8, 1997
relevant issues have been addressed on the landscape plan.
2. PA 97-100 (1175 E Main) - The commission had no comments.
3. PA 97-077 (735 S Mountain) - In the event the existing house
is removed, commission would suggest curving the proposed sidewalk
to the north (inside) of the existing trees in the area where sidewalk
has currently been eliminated.
4. PA 97-084 (610 Ashland St.) - Commission reviewed the Tree
Management Plan and felt there was very good attention to detail in
trying to fill roads and buildings into an urban interface situation. The
commission appreciated the applicant's hard work, vision and
experience.
5. PA 97-093 (Tolman Creek) - The Acer Sach. is shallow rooted and
brittle. This, combined with the cottonwood, would be messy.
Commission suggested Acer Sach. grandidintatum as it is more
drought tolerant and has a little smaller structure. Also, noted that
Sjaponica has toxic pods and leaves. Commission felt the general
selection was complimentary.
B. Ashland Community Hospital Amended Landscape Plan - Staff reported
that the landscaping is not installed yet.
C. Oak Trees on Church Street Alley - Isabel Sickels (170 Church) and
Richard and Sara Montgomery (160 Church) spoke of their concerns
regarding three oak trees growing adjacent to an alley way which abuts their
properties. The Montgomerys were concerned that additional paving might
result in the further decline of the trees. Both the Montgomerys and Isabel
Sickels addressed safety concerns resulting from loose granite and gravel on
the steep, unpaved slope. Isabel Sickles presented photographs showing
that two of the trees appeared more healthy in recent years even though a
portion of the alley had been paved. Tree Commission members suggested
that, although paving certainly was not going to do the trees any good,
actual harm might be minimal since:
1. The current surface is highly compacted, not allowing for much
nutrient or water penetration.
2. The paving would cover primarily transport roots rather than feeder
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ASHLAND TREE COMMISSION
MINUTES
OCTOBER 8, 1997
VI.
roots.
3. Aeration is generally very good within a granitic soil provided there
are no major changes in grade.
4. Any impact caused by the surface change could be mitigated by:
A. Mistletoe removal resulting in more healthy trees.
B. Fertilization within the feeder root area of the trees.
C. Watering during the Spring of particularly dry years.
The Tree Commissioners expressed concern that the paving be done carefully
and that it might be advantageous to have an arborist present when paving is
to take place.
D. Handout: Trees and the Law - Commission had no comments.
F. Other New Business
1. Pete Seda, arborist and a member of the Forest Commission,
requested the commissioners review the hillside development
standards and submit recommendations to the city council before the
November 4th council meeting.
Meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
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