Agenda 11/23/2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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TOWN OF LURAY P.O. Box 629 LURAY. VIRGINIA 22835 (540) 743-551 I November 15, 2004 Mr. Dan Collins Martinsville City Manager PO Box 1112 Martinsville, Virginia 24114 Dear Mr. Collins, I am writing this letter to support a proposal to adopt a tree ordinance for the City of Martinsville Virginia. It is my understanding that this proposal is on the work agenda scheduled for 23 November, 2004, and is sponsored by the Gateway Foundation. Six years ago, the Town of Luray formed a Tree and Beautification Committee. This committee is a very active group of local folks ioterested in the continued beautification of Luray. One of the first projects that we completed was to draft, and have the town council, adopt a tree ordinance. Since that time I have found the ordinance to be extremely helpful in quelling problems associated with out forestry program. For example, last week, we had to remove some very old Oak trees that were planted between the curb and the sidewalk, in a very narrow area. These trees, over the years had damaged the curb and sidewalk with their roots, creating a safety problem. The trees were also planted under utility lines, which required them to be topped repeatedly. Due to the topping, they were disease riddled and prone to storm damage. The surrounding residents were understandably upset that we had to remove their stately old shade trees. However, thanks to having a well-written tree ordinance, that specified that any tree removed by the town, will be replaced, we are replacing them with a more appropriate variety. This is just one of many examples that by having a tree ordinance has helped to lessen problems related to local forestry for my staffand myself. I am proud to say that the Town of Luray has been awarded Tree City U.S.A. status for the last four years, and reeieved the foundations Growth Award last year. Having a tree ordinance is a requirement for the Tree City U.S.A. program. I have found the program to be extremely beneficial to us by helping to educate local citizens to proper tree stewardship, providing us the opportunity to celebrate a fun arbor day, by assisting with technical assistance, and others. By adopting this ordinance, the City of Martinsville will be well on it's way to becoming a Tree City U.S.A.! Please feel free to contact me if I could be helpful in providing more information concerning this issue. Pat O'Brien ~ Parks & Recreation Director Town of Luray 45 East Main Street P.O. Box 629 Luray, Virginia 22835 Town Ot¥1ce - (540) 743-5511 Park Office - (540) 743-6475 Fax - (540) 743-6974 E-mail. luraypks~shentel.net Sincerely, D, e%m,- 6 a, D. Patrick O'Brien Luray Parks and Recreation Director