Acknowledging input offered by the Newton Conservators, Green Newton has written a second letter to the Mayor, this time expressing support for a request by the Newton Cemetery and Arboretum (NC&A) for a waiver from compliance with the Tree Preservation Ordinance for its Phase II expansion. The Newton Conservators had already written to the Mayor in April expressing support for granting this waiver.
Green Newton had previously submitted this letter to the Mayor, asking her honor to uphold the decision made by Urban Forester and Deputy Commissioner of the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Department, Marc Welch, denying NC&A’s request for a waiver from Tree Preservation Ordinance for its Phase II expansion, which includes the development of “7 acres of land to increase grave space and solidify its financial stability.” (see permit application)
NC&A anticipates the removal of approximately 220 trees but will plant 743 trees over the next three years. However, the replacement trees fall short of the number of 1558 caliper inches required under the Tree Ordinance. According to the permit application, “If NC&A were required to make a payment to the Tree Preservation Fund the payment would be approximately $280,440 (NOTE: the first letter from Green Newton stated a payment amount of $311,600), which would create a significant financial hardship for the organization. The financial burden placed on the Cemetery would impact the future economic stability of our non-profit, affecting maintenance projects, perpetual care obligations, and the integrity of the historic resource so significant to the fabric of our city.”
Three other organizations — the Newton Tree Conservancy, the Newton Citizens Commission on Energy, and the League of Women Voters — have written to the Mayor urging her honor to uphold the decision denying the request.
