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Removal of City-owned Tree - 206 Caledonia Road
(Davenport)
The Toronto Community Council recommends that the request for removal of a City-owned tree at 206 Caledonia Road be denied.
The Toronto Community Council submits the following report (January 15, 1998) from the Director, Development and Support, Toronto Parks and Recreation:
Purpose
This report is before Toronto Community Council because Giovanni and Lena Marotta are requesting the removal of a City-owned tree due to problems with the drains and branches and leaves falling on the roof.
Funding Sources, Financial Implications and Impact Statement:
Not applicable.
Recommendation:
That the tree removal be denied.
Comments:
I have received a request from Giovanni and Lena Marotta, 206 Caledonia Road,Toronto, M6E 4S7, that the Toronto Community Council consider removal of a City owned white elm tree. Mr. and Mrs. Marotta wish to have this tree removed as they are concerned about the tree roots clogging their drains and leaves falling on the roof in the fall.
The tree in question is a 90 cm diameter white elm which is in fair condition and is valued at $9,208.00. My staff inspected this tree on January 12, 1998 and found that the tree is well pruned and the branches are clear from the house.
With respect to drain problems experienced at this address, I advise that if drains leak, they will attract tree roots which may result in clogged drains. Without an alternate water source, tree roots grow in the uppermost 60 cm of soil where moisture, nutrients and oxygen are available. The only solution to this problem is to replace old, deteriorating drains with new drains which do not leak and attract roots.
With respect to leaves falling on the roof, removal of the tree will not guarantee elimination of leaves on the roof, as many are windblown from trees in the area, and could originate from trees on City or private property.
Removal of City trees for reasons outlined in this report is not advisable as it would set an undesirable precedent for removing many City trees.
However, should the Toronto Community Council approve tree removal, I recommend that the applicant pay all costs involved, this includes the tree value of $9,208.00, the removal costs of $909.76, and the cost to plant a replacement tree, $475.62, for a total of $10,593.38.
Contact Name:
Paulette Mullings
Telephone: (416) 392-6640
Fax: (416) 392-6657
E-Mail: pmulling @ city.tor.on.ca
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