BEAUFORT, N.C. - The trees are safe! That’s the word from the town of Beaufort.
The town commission bowed to the pleas of people who wanted to save 9 trees that were supposed to be cut down to add on to a boat ramp.
Today, the town agreed on a redesigned plan that would replace the boat ramp, floating dock and pier and allow storm water to run off into Taylor’s Creek without taking down the trees.
The debate has gone on for months activists say they are ecstatic about today’s decision.
--- Original Story ---
BEAUFORT, N.C. - Dozens of people in Beaufort have taken a stand over planned expansion of some boat ramps. It doesn't sound so controversial, until you factor in the beautiful old trees.
Gerharda Sanchez doesn't like a new plan to cut down 60-year old oak trees here at Curtis Perry Park. She says"To cut down a mature tree is a case of vandalism as far as I'm concerned".
That's why she and other people came to this board of commissioners meeting wednesday.
but the board voted to make a recommendation for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to cut down the trees.
Beaufort Town Manager Charlie Burgess says the move makes it easier to park boat trailers and expand the parking lot. He says "Trees are being removed but there's also better storm water management and storm water drainage."
The town has a lease with the Wildlife Resources Commission, who originally wanted to cut down 14 trees. And while the final say rests in the hands of the Commission, Burgess says town officials wanted to come up with the best plan.
He says "The environmental aspects is really the heart and the vitality of the town and the county. And the town is listening and trying to make positive aspects in that area".
And while the commissioners tried to break middle ground, Sanchez says she isn't happy with their vote.
No word on when the Wildlife Resources Commission will make a final decision.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement