County makes decision on trees

The county commissioners have decided to move ahead alone with solving the problem of dying trees in front of the courthouse, and will also be looking into additional enhancements for the grounds of the courthouse, such as picnic tables.

The fruit trees lining the sidewalk in front of the courthouse were inspected a month ago by a representative from American Forestry and all four were found to be infected with blight.

Facilities Maintenance Supervisor Larry Schommer approached the Sundance City Council in July to find out who is responsible for maintaining and replacing them. He explained that they are unlikely to survive but cannot simply be replaced because the blight causes the roots to become acidic, which will adversely affect anything planted in the same place.

He brought suggestions from the county including to move the trees back onto the grass, where they would have a better chance of surviving; to replace them with large planters, which could be taken inside during winter weather; or install statues similar to those outside Old Stoney, which could also be removed when there’s a need to snow plow.

However, no resolution was reached.

Keen to solve the problem before the trees actually die, the commission on Tuesday opted to bypass the need for a joint decision. The decision was made to replace the trees, but up on the grass instead of on the sidewalk.

“You’re talking new trees?” asked Commissioner Bob Latham. “You’re not going to move these?”

Schommer clarified that this would be necessary as the current trees are not expected to survive.

The commission directed Schommer to pursue figuring out who to contact for potential grant funding through WYDOT.

Schommer also asked for guidance on the idea of adding items such as picnic tables and shade structures to the courthouse grounds. The commission agreed that it could be a public benefit to add items that are both functional and low maintenance.

Schommer was directed to investigate the cost of pursuing these enhancements.

“It’s something to look at – I wouldn’t mind seeing prices,” said Commissioner Fred Devish.