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Members of the Tree Committee Bylaw Working Group will answer your questions about these articles, as well as the proposals that did not make it into the Warrant this year. We will also discuss other ongoing efforts to protect our trees, beyond legislation.
You can read the articles and watch the presentation videos on the Town website. To summarize:
Article 34 – Tree Protection Plan: During major construction, a tree protection plan prepared by a certified arborist would be required to ensure the health and safety of those trees under the jurisdiction of the Bylaw.
Article 35 – Require Mitigation Planting: When protected trees are removed from a site of major construction, a minimum number of trees must be planted in the front of the property. Property owners cannot opt out by paying into the tree fund.
Article 36 – Tree Bylaw Exemptions: A rigorous standard is defined for trees which are deemed hazards and exempted from the Bylaw. Invasive species are also addressed.
Article 37 – Resolution on the Importance of Trees: This resolution echoes the language of the Statement of Concern, asserting the importance of trees and directing the Town to take appropriate action.
There are two ways you can help support this cause. One is to be a part of the political process and vote. Lexington is holding its annual election on Tuesday, March 5th. There is one contested Select Board seat and two contested Planning Board seats. One third of Town Meeting seats are on the ballot. These elections matter. You can learn more about this election and the candidates at our guide to the election here.
A second way is to inform your Town Meeting representatives that you support the four articles above and ask that they approve them.
Finally, I want to let everyone know about the new free planting program in which the Town will plant a tree on your property at no charge. Please spread the word in your neighborhood: www.lextrees.org/free-trees
Thank you for your continued support, and greatest thanks to the many individuals who have worked hard on these Town Meeting Articles.
Signed,
Dan Miller
LexTrees.org