Litchfield Park plans tree donation program after storm damage

This program is a great way to celebrate their effort, instill pride in our city, and preserve our rich history.”

— Kevin Hamilton, public grounds superintendent

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Litchfield Park faces an estimated $425,000 bill to remove and replace about 50 palm trees damaged from recent storms, and city staff are developing a way for residents to help.

Public Grounds Superintendent Kevin Hamilton outlined a proposed tree donation program during an Oct. 21 City Council presentation, saying the palms identified for replacement were “confirmed dead or going to be dead.”

Residents Kelly Bohm and Beth Jordan approached the city with a proposal to restore trees and create a long-term plan to protect and grow its canopy. Their idea helped shape the sponsorship program Hamilton presented.

“This program is a great way to celebrate their effort, instill pride in our city, and preserve our rich history,” Hamilton said.

Under the proposal, residents could sponsor a tree to honor a loved one, celebrate a milestone or support the city. Businesses, community organizations and civic groups also could participate.

Proposed sponsorships include approximately $500 for a community tree, $1,000 for a shade tree and $8,500 for a palm replacement. General contributions of any amount also would be accepted, giving people a way to participate without sponsoring an entire tree.

Hamilton said the initial pricing was based on a 20-foot fan palm. Mayor Thomas Schoaf suggested looking at smaller palms to see whether the city could stretch its dollars further.

“I would suggest for palms that we might want to look at something a little shorter and see how much difference there is in cost,” Schoaf said.

Hamilton said staff had selected the priced trees after residents raised concerns that replacement citrus trees were too small and took too long to grow.

The city would oversee planting, long-term care and locations. Details about tree sizes, sponsorship options and planting arrangements are still in the works. Hamilton said sponsorship details would be announced on the city’s website.

Noah Flug
Reporter | Litchfield Park and Goodyear

nflug@iniusa.org

Community: Litchfield Park and Goodyear

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication with a minor in Digital Audiences from Arizona State University

Random Fact: I only have one biological cousin.

Hobbies: Watching movies and TV, spending time with my friends, aspiring stoic.