New Albany Tree Board Meeting - July 8, 2026

The New Albany Tree Board met on July 8, 2026, to address public comments, discuss tree-related issues, and receive an introduction from a new DNR representative. Key actions included approving a tree removal with replacement, tabling a hazardous tree decision, and referring a sidewalk damage issue to the Board of Public Works.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Eric Fowler (1418 Chartres Street) requested removal of a city-owned golden rain tree planted on the public right-of-way near his property. He stated the tree's falling nuts, blossoms, and leaves require frequent car washes (minimum $14 twice a week or $80 monthly for interior/exterior cleaning). He offered to pay for a replacement tree elsewhere if the city removed the tree, as a $4,000 quote to remove a large shared oak on his property was unaffordable. His mother, the homeowner, is 81 years old and struggles with parking due to the tree's debris.

Discussion Items

• Eric Fowler's tree removal request: The board discussed the tree's condition (fair, with weed-eater damage and a broken limb). After considering options, the board voted to approve removal upon receipt of $320 (cost of a replacement tree planted by the city). The replacement will be planted at a nearby suitable site, and Mr. Fowler agreed to maintain a large oak on his property to support the urban canopy.
• DNR Presentation: Amy Rhodes, new Community Urban Forestry Program coordinator (south of I-70), introduced herself and the CUFA grant (Community Urban Forestry Assistance, $1,000-$30,000, 1:1 match reimbursement, deadline September 11, 2026). She discussed challenges communities face, including lack of dedicated arborists and budget constraints, and praised New Albany's tree program. Board members shared program successes and challenges, including funding, climate change, and tree survival.
• Silver Creek Drive oak tree: A large oak tree protruding into the road has been struck by vehicles, has minor decay, and is a moderate risk. A neighbor warned of potential liability. The board voted to table the decision for one month, pending inspection by the street department (Larry Summers) regarding roadway impact and safety.
• 323 block sidewalk damage: Trees (likely on Reno side) are buckling sidewalks to hazardous levels. The board voted to refer the issue to Mickey Thompson and the Board of Public Works for potential sidewalk replacement and root trimming.
• 1610 East Spring Street tree: A healthy tree that dropped a small limb, damaging a resident's car twice. The resident was cordial and agreed to park elsewhere during storms. No action taken; board noted the tree provides good canopy.
• 121 East 14th Street dead tree: A large dead maple on private property (rental) across from a retirement facility. Staff will proceed with enforcement under the new hazardous tree ordinance, sending a letter to the property owner. The board noted this is early in the process and deferred immediate action to prioritize more urgent cases.
• AV equipment issue: The board discussed difficulty connecting staff Dell computers to the display TV due to council's policy requiring Apple products. Staff will resolve before next meeting.

Key Outcomes

• Motion to remove Eric Fowler's city tree: Approved unanimously (5-0) upon receipt of $320 replacement cost; city will plant a replacement tree nearby.
• Motion to table Silver Creek Drive oak tree: Approved unanimously (5-0) for one month, with instructions for staff to obtain street department input.
• Motion to refer 323 block sidewalk damage to Board of Public Works: Approved unanimously (5-0).
• No action on 1610 East Spring Street tree: Issue resolved informally.
• Enforcement process initiated for 121 East 14th Street tree: Staff will send a hazardous tree letter to the property owner.
• Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:15 PM (local time).