SIDNEY — Sidney Tree Board re-elected Ann Asher to chair and Michael Jannides to co-chair at the February meeting.

A representative for the owners of Courtview Center on South Main Avenue, Steve Shuchat, requested the board to review a permit approved last spring that allowed the removal of eight trees and the replacement of six. The permit was granted with the stipulation that a tree was to be planted across the street in an empty grate.

Shuchat told the board the owners do not want to set a precedent of replacing a tree not on their property. The trees in question are in the city’s right of way. He also said there is possible sidewalk damage due to tree roots.

Sidney Street Manager Brian Green said he thought he recalled visible tree roots during an inspection last year. Green also pointed out the point of planing a tree across the street is because the owners want to remove eight trees and only replant five.

Asher and Board Member Anne Sharp questioned removal of eight trees and only replanting six. Board member Brandi Thompson said since most of the trees being removed are healthy, planting a tree across the street is the least they could do. It was mentioned that the tenants would like to see activity outside of the windows other than just tree limbs.

After Shuchat requested a copy of the permit, Sidney Public Works Administrator Assistant Joyce Reier said she would email the permit but suggested applying for a new permit since they typically expire after planting season.

Shuchat said he will take the request back to the owners.

In other business, a permit was unanimously approved to plant an eastern redbud tree at 526 S. Miami Ave. with the stipulation that planting and watering standards be included. Also the board reviewed the 2017-2025 cyclical pruning map of the second round of a nine year pruning plan.

Reier told the board that Sidney City Council approved $10,000 for the 2017 tree planting budget for the second consecutive year. She said due to staff schedules, the bid will go out for fall planting.

It was noted the annual Urban Forestry Council update will be on Monday, April 3, which board members may attend. Also the Tree City USA awards program is April 21 in Lebanon, and the Arbor Day celebration will be held on April 28 at a location to be determined.