Apology and Commitment to Improved Communication Regarding Platzl Tree Removal – Future Management of Urban Trees
The City of Kimberley would like to address recent concerns regarding the removal of the tree near the East entrance to the Platzl. This action has caused confusion and frustration, and we want to offer both clarification and a sincere apology for the lack of communication throughout this process.
This tree was removed by an independent service group subsequent to them receiving Council’s permission to install a statue at the site, intended to honor service dogs. While the removal was deemed necessary to accommodate the installation, the service group failed to obtain the necessary permit within the requisite timeline prior to them commencing to take the tree down. Although a Certified Faller and silviculturalist, through consultation with the City, had previously assessed the tree and determined it to be a risk to surrounding infrastructure, the removal process itself was undertaken without proper advance notice to the City or adequate communication to the public.
It is important to note that the tree removed was a Colorado Blue Spruce, a species known for its aggressive root system as it matures. Spruce trees can be particularly problematic in urban environments because their roots often displace sidewalks, disrupt brickwork, and damage foundations, plumbing, and underground utilities. In this case, the tree had outgrown its planter. Due to its size, age, and shallow root structure, the tree was susceptible to being uprooted in high winds, posing a risk to both the public and adjacent buildings.
While the tree’s potential to impact infrastructure and the risk it posed to the public warranted action, we appreciate that the process of removing a tree in a prominent public space such as the Platzl merits advance notification to the community and surrounding businesses. The City did not conduct the removal, but we acknowledge that the poor communication was a mistake.
The service group that carried out removal of the Spruce tree has committed to planting a new tree at the site. This new tree will be chosen carefully by City staff in consultation with the appropriate professionals to ensure that it is well suited to the location.
The City is committed to improving its processes involving tree removals or other significant changes to the Platzl. As one of the recommended actions in the Parks and Facilities Master Plan, City staff will be working with consultants to prepare an urban tree inventory and management plan which will include recommendations on tree management in the Platzl. Council has also directed that staff develop a policy which sets parameters around the future placement of art installations in our downtown. The Platzl is a special community asset, and a policy with consistent guidelines will help to provide a coordinated approach to its future form and function.
Thank you for your understanding, and for your continued dedication to making Kimberley a good place to be.
