Shade Tree Commission

DOYLESTOWN BOROUGH SHADE TREE COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES December 12, 2023 The regular meeting of the Doylestown Borough Shade Tree Commission was held at 6:30 PM on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Doylestown Borough Hall, 10 Doyle Street. Members of the Commission in attendance were: Jean Weston and Chris May. Also in attendance were Borough Arborist, Bob McMullin, Building & Zoning Director, Karyn Hyland, Park and Recreation Director, Dave Burger, along with applicants, Carolyn Penglase, Bart Creedon, and Mike Frank for Public comment. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 6:30 PM. MINUTES APPROVAL: No Quorum to approve. SUBDIVISION/LAND DEVELOPMENT: None PERMIT APPLICATIONS: 540 Maple Avenue Commission approved the issuance of a permit for removal of 1 Norway Maple. Members in Attendance Recommended Approval 544 Maple Avenue Commission approved the issuance of a permit for removal of 1 Evergreen. Members in Attendance Recommended Approval 137 Lafayette Street Commission approved the issuance of a permit for removal of 2 Dogwoods. Comment noted that Tulip Poplar which was struck by lightning is healthy. Members in Attendance Recommended Approval 131 E. Oakland Avenue Commission approved the issuance of a permit for removal of 1 Holly. Members in Attendance Recommended Approval 348 Maple Avenue Commission approved the issuance of a permit for removal of 1 Cedar. Recommended to plant new trees in front of house. Members in Attendance Recommended Approval 334 Maple Avenue Commission approved the issuance of a permit for removal of 1 Curley Willow. Members in Attendance Recommended Approval 5 Pearl Drive Commission approved the issuance of a permit for removal of 1 Sweet Gum. Recommended to plant new trees closer to house. Members in Attendance Recommended Approval NEW/OLD BUSINESS: Burger spoke regarding Mr. Frank’s property located at 56 S. Franklin Street. The large Zelkova Street Tree along the corner of his property is causing his sidewalk to be a trip hazard. The members present and Borough Arborist spoke briefly about a permanent resolution, rather than a short-term fix. They all agree the tree should be removed and they recommended planting one or two trees along the Mary Street side of the property. Burger advised he would need to coordinate the removal with PECO since wires are running through the branches. There was a brief discussion regarding the Maplewood Street tree-planting project. Jean Weston shared a copy of the draft letter that will be personally dropped off to property owners. Hyland noted that the Borough staff could reformat and add a QR code to the letter before distribution. Burger spoke about Arbor Day and ordering the tree species that will be given away. After discussion, it was recommended to use black gum, dogwood, red bud, or American hornbeam. This will be discussed at the next meeting with the members for a final decision. May expressed that the Doylestown Cemetery is interested in forming a partnership with Doylestown Borough for the removal and planting of trees. Hyland advised although we have acknowledged the Cemetery as a property that the Borough might work with on replanting lost trees, the removal and replacement of existing healthy trees on private property is not consistent with the Borough’s goals and priorities. ARBORIST REPORT: None ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned at 7:35 PM. Respectfully Submitted, Stacy Murray The next Shade Tree Meeting is on January 9, 2024