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Agenda Item: 7A |
Prepared By: Jose Muchati |
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Business: New Business |
Department: Fleet & Facilities |
Subject:
Title
LCEC / Bald Eagle Replacement Tree Update (L. Scherzinger)
Body
BACKGROUND: During public comment at the April 1, 2026, meeting, Fran Acle, a resident near the Historical Museum, thanked the committee for its work and raised concerns about the barren appearance of Bald Eagle Drive (from Yellowbird to around Elkam/Marco Lake) and parts of San Marco Road near the YMCA/“Y.”She asked whether more trees or other plantings (e.g., seagrasses, bromeliads, agaves) could be added, and suggested exploring median or center-lane plantings on Bald Eagle to create a shaded, canopy-like corridor that would also calm traffic.
The committee explained that about 14 trees were previously removed by LCEC and there are 14-foot height restrictions under power lines, but acknowledged the corridor looks poor and discussed future possibilities: using lower-growing patio trees or shrubs in sensitive areas, considering new medians where traffic safety allows, and revisiting prior understandings about whether removed trees could or should be replaced.
Victoria noted that future plantings under utilities should prioritize species that stay below the height limit, while Marv emphasized the need to also consider long-term trimming budgets so existing lopsided trees and any new trees can be properly maintained.
FUNDING SOURCE / FISCAL IMPACT: TBD
RECOMMENDATION: Receive report
POTENTIAL MOTION: TBD