Perry Council approves playground name, citizen speaks for the trees

PERRY — A citizen expressed her concerns over the city’s tree ordinance during Tuesday night’s Perry City Council meeting. 

During public comments, Elizabeth Baker addressed Mayor Randall Walker and the council about the number of trees being cut down in the city. She believed that the current tree ordinance is thoughtful and well-intended, but does not have enough restrictions to prevent developers from cutting down trees. Baker also believed the real issue is money. 

The current tree ordinance’s purpose says: 

“Protection of existing tree cover is intended to preserve the environmental and aesthetic qualities of Perry; to encourage site design techniques that preserve the natural environment and enhance the developed environment; to control erosion, slippage, and sediment runoff into streams and waterways; to increase slope stability; and, to protect wildlife habitat and migration corridors. Preservation or provision of trees near structures also serves to conserve energy by reducing heating and cooling costs.”

An example Baker shared was a current development on Northside Drive, the future location of a three-story apartment building. She said the lot had multiple old-growth trees, which she believed would take a long time to replace.

According to Baker, a low percentage of trees survive a year; few seedlings survive, which is why few old-growth trees survive. Older trees are also resilient to wind and pests, she said. 

“When you smack down one, you have no guarantee what you replace it with is going to live,” she said. 

Another concern she mentioned is that when trees are replaced, they are planted in a small green space, which will eventually be cut down. She believes the replacement trees will not grow to a substantial size. 

“I have been told by well-meaning people they have said that progress is ugly, change is hard and then when we get to the end it’s going to look nice. I’m old, I’m 62, and I don’t have time to wait for these trees to get big. I just don’t,” she said 

Baker shared several suggestions for improving the tree ordinance. 

City Manager Robert Smith followed up on Baker’s comments, saying the tree canopy is a quality-of-life amenity. He believes there is a disconnect between what the council wants to see in their tree ordinance versus what is happening on the ground. 

Smith said the city is currently revising the tree ordinance, and it has been a significant topic of discussion. Over the past few years, the tree canopy rating has been trending downward, he mentioned. 

“We as a city do need to start paying attention to this sort of thing. Our tree canopy really isn’t where it should be. It’s not where we want it to be,” he said. 

Smith said the city wants to invest in planting trees and bringing back the canopy. He hopes to bring back recommendations for improving the tree ordinance to the council soon. 

Naming of Magnolia Point park

Earlier in the council meeting, council approved Magnolia Point Park as the official name for the city’s first inclusive playground. 

City Manager Robert Smith explained that the park, located on Langston Road, is in partnership with the Haseya Women’s Club, which is raising funds for the playground equipment. 

Their agreement states the city will provide the land, construct parking lots and add a restroom structure. In return, the Haseya Women’s Club will invest $1 million in inclusive playground equipment for children of all abilities. 

He shared that the project is nearing completion and will be given to the city for ownership and maintenance. 

The club recommended the name Magnolia Point Park for the city’s approval. Club members were unable to attend the meeting, but they provided a statement that Smith read to council: 

“On behalf of the Haseya Women’s Club, we are honored to present the official name request for our inclusive playground project: Magnolia Point Park. The selection of this name is deeply rooted in our club’s identity and mission. Our club’s name, Haseya, is a Navajo word meaning ‘to rise up.’ Our official club flower is a magnolia, chosen because it symbolizes perseverance, dignity, and strength. 

“These qualities reflect the resilience of the children and families we hope to serve and our commitment to ensuring every child has a place to rise up, overcome challenges, and thrive. By using the name Magnolia Point Park, we aim to create a landmark that embodies a steadfast dedication to accessibility for all. We would like to extend our sincerest thank you to the city of Perry for your unwavering partnership. This project would not be possible without your support and shared vision for a more inclusive community.” 

In the statement, the club noted they are $100,000 short of their $1 million fundraising goal and they are looking forward to continuing their work with the city to make the park a reality. 

Council approved the recommendation unanimously. 

To keep up with the Haseya Women’s Club, visit their Facebook page. 

Mayor and Council will hold their pre-council meeting at 5 p.m. and the regular council meeting at 6 p.m. on March 17. Everyone is invited to attend, and the agenda is available here. Both meetings are also livestreamed on YouTube.