Tree ordinance proposed in city

Stand-out trees in Langley could be protected by a new ordinance as soon as November.

The mayor, councilmembers and local residents discussed the possibility of adopting a Heritage Tree Ordinance at the Langley City Council on Wednesday, Aug. 17.

Cities throughout the country have adopted Heritage Tree Ordinances to protect and preserve the scenic beauty and natural environment. The ordinances often include trees that — because of their age, size, type, historical association or horticultural value — are of special importance to the city.

Mayor Neil Colburn recognized the need for an ordinance.

“Thirty years ago this was a logging town,” he said. Throughout the years the city has changed. “When Langley Inn was built it became more of a destination area.”

Langley city councilmembers supported the idea of adopting an ordinance.

“I think there is a public consciousness about this,” said Councilwoman Rene Neff.

Talk of tree-saving began when a large old tree was cut down on the corner of Cascade and Sixth in Langley. An alarm bell went off for some residents because they value the aesthetics and history of certain trees.

Residents began to question whether it should be okay to cut down these trees without prior approval from the city. The Langley planning advisory board will address the issue of adopting a Heritage Tree Ordinance in the coming months.

“We will be looking at it seriously as a group in early November,” said Alice Schisel, Langley’s planning official.

Heritage Tree Ordinances adopted by other cities have established a list of trees to be protected. They can also include permitting policies and procedures for removal, heavy pruning and protection of heritage trees and specify penalties for violation.

The planning advisory board is welcoming the public’s feedback and ideas about adopting a Heritage Tree Ordinance.

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