As a resident of Mt. Laurel, I have noticed for several years that many once beautiful curbside trees were dying. I learned from several residents that the township had removed their dead trees at their request. As of lately, the tree removals have stopped.
I became alarmed that falling tree branches (especially during storms) could injure someone. I have personally seen large branches, fallen in the roadways. This prompted me to contact the township about how they would address the problem. My first feedback from the township was, “The township is reviewing their responsibility with the township attorney to determine the best course of action.” Then on Aug. 2, the township removed about a dozen dead trees on Academy Drive (which were indeed very hazardous.) Upon attending the Aug. 6 regular council meeting, I addressed the council about the problem and was told that the Township recognized their responsibility for the public thoroughfares, but for curbside trees in front of residences, the responsibility was unclear. The attorney indicated the possibility of new legislation that might declare the resident being responsible.
My personal inclination is that a new ordinance for sure can name the responsibility for new plantings, but for trees planted years ago by the township; they should have some responsibility. The purpose of this letter is an FYI to you and to suggest that you to personally keep abreast of any new ordinances regarding trees, since such ordinances will not be widely advertised. If the new ordinance does affect the resident negatively, it will be up to the resident to solely or band together to petition it.
Hank Swiatkowski
Mt. Laurel
