Landowner accuses contractor of cutting 28 trees near Recreation Road cemetery; board to file police report

A property owner reported that a contractor conducted tree removal along the riverbank in front of Recreation Road Cemetery and said a recent survey shows those trees were not on town‑owned land. The speaker said approximately 28 stumps are visible and expressed concern about riverbank stability and flood risk after the 2023 flood, arguing the trees helped hold the bank and that removal may have been improper.

Board members reviewed a parcel map and discussed the fact that the town's parcel depiction in some mapping systems may differ from a newly filed survey; the board advised the resident to file a police report, to obtain an appraisal of the removed trees and to return with documentation so it can decide whether further action is warranted. Board members agreed to investigate whether the contractor had permission and to coordinate with town staff and the surveyor to confirm legal boundaries.

No formal remedy was adopted at the meeting; members recommended outreach to the contractor and obtaining a police report and value estimate as next steps.