Letters to the Editor

+ Town should trim pine tree requirements
Dear Editor:
Now that the property next to Club Longboat has been sold and is being developed, people are already shocked at the demolition of the Australian pines. This issue comes to light from time to time when large pines are removed and people realize how much they miss them.

Am I the only voice on the island to try to talk some common sense into the commissioners about revisiting the ordinance (2010-2013) that demands that all these pines be destroyed on our island? Any parcel of land being developed must have all these trees taken down on the property. Property owners have no say; it is the law!

There may have been a time in our history when the idea of eradicating these pines might have been a good idea, however, as the island has been developed, people are coming to the realization that these large, beautiful shade trees have a role in the general ambiance and natural look of the Key.

Most people I talk to are unaware of this strict mandate and, when told, are appalled. They ask, “Why?” They love the look on our beaches when graced by these trees, and most would like these pines conserved. When considering all the arguments given to eradicate the pines, I believe there is a better solution, and that is, to sustain these trees in a controlled manner.

Now that most of the island is developed, is it not about time we reassess the existing ordinance, using logic, and amend the law in some way so that the pines can be protected? Let’s do what we can to preserve what remains of that certain charmed, natural “old Florida” look along the shores while we still can. We do not want to be compared to other coastal shorelines that have already lost this look.

Tom Churchill
Longboat Key