Gettysburg Borough Council wants its residents to talk trees.
During their recent workshop, the council discussed a proposed revision to its Shade Tree Ordinance, which would allow the Shade Tree Commission to plant trees on private property with the owners’ consent. Commission Member Susan Naugle said the approach would help the borough add trees to areas of the borough where planting on sidewalks is challenging. She said the 500-600 block of York Street is an ideal location for new trees because it is a gateway to the town and there are no utility lines on the north side. However, Naugle said, the sidewalk is too narrow.
Under the proposal drafted by Shade Tree Commission Chair David Rice, the borough would plant trees on private property at their expense with the owners’ permission. Once the tree goes into the ground, maintenance and removal are the property owners’ responsibility.
“I think this is a fascinating idea, but there are potential pitfalls and we do try to be somewhat risk averse,” Council President Matthew Moon said.
Public Works Director Robert Harbaugh expressed concerns about unforeseen issues that may arise when borough staff are digging on private property. Harbaugh’s crew often finds unknown obstacles in the ground when doing their work on public streets and sidewalks. Council President Harry Eastman said the borough could enter into easement agreements with property owners that would outline such unknowns.
Moon directed Eastman to report his findings and encourage council members to gather input from their constituents.
Walking Tours
Some members of the council want ghost hunters to go about their work more quietly.
Planning Director John Whitmore said his office is exploring possible changes to the Guided Walking Tour Ordinance, which will limit or prohibit the amplification of sound.
Councilmember Patti Lawson supported Whitmore’s proposal, noting several residents have expressed concerns about the noise from walking tours.
“Those are annoying, especially when it is happening before work and there is outdoor dining going on,” Councilman Chad-Alan Carr said.
Moon said there are numerous issues surrounding walking tours, including groups entering private property.
Council will continue to discuss proposed changes at future meetings.
Alex J. Hayes has spent almost two decades in the Adams County news business. He is passionate about sharing stories focused on the people in our communities and following local governments in an age when few journalists report on their meetings. Alex is also a freelance writer for several other publications in South Central Pennsylvania. Alex encourages readers to contact him at ahayes83@gmail.com.