Hi.
I noticed a Heritage Tree Removal sign at 760 College Avenue in Menlo Park.
The trees in question - mature southern magnolias - are in the public right of way, not on the property itself. Is the city removing the trees at the behest of the developer? If so, why does "negative impact on future development" (the stated reason for removal) justify the trees' removal? If that were the case, any developer could remove any heritage tree in a public space simply because they couldn't drive their heavy equipment onto a lot as easily as they'd like.
I support new development, and understand the need to limit NIMBY objections to such development (via a $200 contestation fee), but it seems unreasonable that so many of these removals are approved, especially in a public space, with so little recourse for a better solution. Heritage trees are a key part of what makes Menlo Park a desirable place to live. I hope we don't sacrifice that to help a few developers maximize their profit.
Please let me know if I am missing any important details.
Thank you,
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Rob Jordan
cell: (415) 760-8058
rob-jordan.com
