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BIRMINGHAM — In spite of all of the hustle and bustle and development, trees literally breathe life into our neighborhoods.
In Birmingham, where generations of city caretakers have sought to preserve the charm and character that make this little corner of Oakland County unique, the tree canopy is being greatly depleted, leaving what were once quaint, tree-lined streets bare or blighted in the shadow of the butchered remains of proud arboreal sentinels.
The Citizens Advisory Committee on Tree Preservation seeks to bring the voices of residents to the tree management conversation by facilitating direct citizen input that enhances transparency and ensures community interests are represented in the decision-making process.
“As residents, there’s got to be a way where we can work together,” said Joy Cantor, a resident and the committee’s communications liaison. “It’s very daunting to get a loud knock on your door at 8 o’clock in the morning, and there’s a lumberjack there saying, ‘We’re taking the tree out, now,’ and there’s never been a conversation about it.”
The effort calls on the Birmingham City Commission to create a committee of three independent representatives with related expertise and experience, plus two at-large residents with an interest in street aesthetics. The committee would meet regularly, consult with neighbors and provide feedback and recommendations to city officials.
A petition effort has been launched, and business support is being sought. Of course, residential support is crucial. Click here to sign the petition.
To get involved in the effort or for more information, email Joy Cantor at joycantor@me.com. Inquiries can also be directed to Rod Lockwood by email at rodlockwood1@yahoo.com.
