Update: Kersting Court Tree Will Come Down, May be Replaced

Update: The California Pepper tree in Kersting Court will be removed this coming Wednesday February 29, according to Sierra Madre News Net.

Earlier:

The large California pepper tree currently being propped up by two metal poles in Kersting Court will soon come down. It's estimated to be over 100 years old, according to Bruce Inman, Director of Public Works.

The City did not receive any appeals to the tree's removal, which the Tree Commission recommended during a January meeting. Though the tree survived the 2011 windstorm, it lost a limb the night before the high winds hit, is dying, and has been deemed a public hazard.

Last night, The Tree Commission and the Community Services Commission met to figure out whether to replace the tree and two other pepper trees that fell in Kersting Court during the windstorm or utilize the space for something else.

Will New Trees Be Planted?

The commissioners discussed replacing the trees with new pepper trees or a different species, though the decision could be opened up for public input.

It was also suggested that the stump and subsequent wood and logs could be used to create benches, tables and a seating area, instead of planting a new tree.

The cost of new trees is generally $200-250 each.

In the end, the commissioners moved to have a staff report compiled that would outline different plans for the area after the dying pepper tree has been removed, including what each plan would cost. Their motion was amended to include that major portions of the tree be saved for potential future use.

The City Council has already spent on windstorm clean-up and damage, but hasn't yet designated any money for the replacement of fallen trees.

Los Angeles County is currently offering up to $100,000. The city would have to apply to find out their eligibility. The deadline is May 31.

Earlier: