Tree board hears update on town‑center stop‑work order and Blue Heron Park restoration

Members reviewed two related site-management issues: a stop-work order at the town center and volunteer-driven restoration at Blue Heron Park.

Kyle Gotti and city staff described a recent stop-work (red-tag) issued after contractors hired by the town center removed brush and cut native willows along the linear green space between Chase and Starbucks; work was halted pending a cleanup and a restoration plan. Sam and other board members said the contractor was instructed to stop and that the board and the town-center representatives will develop a restoration and replanting plan before any further clearing.

Separately, members reported on a work party at Blue Heron Park. Volunteers cleared invasive brush, conducted water testing and have begun replanting in areas opened by the volunteer crew. Linda Holman was named as directing the effort and members said the cleared area already appears improved. The board discussed coordinating future invasive-removal efforts and potential multi-party grant funding for larger removals (including KCD proposals) at 5 Acre Woods and other parks.

Members asked staff to plan a restoration review with the town-center manager and to prioritize invasive-removal projects in the work plan so the board can pursue funding and coordinate with parks staff and the Stewardship Foundation.