During Tuesday’s meeting, the Caldwell County Fiscal Court decided to remove two Magnolia trees with significant rot from the courthouse’s east side after an arborist deemed them a safety hazard.
District 4 Magistrate Jeff Simms explained that significant rot was discovered in the two Magnolia trees during trimming for the courthouse roof repair project.
He mentioned that they consulted Jarvis Tree Service, a certified state arborist, who assessed the condition of the two Magnolia trees and recommended their removal due to safety concerns.
Simms added that the Fiscal Court is disheartened that the trees need to be removed.
He added that he hopes to develop a comprehensive landscaping plan for the courthouse, involving community input.
According to Simms, the quote for removing the two trees is $1,800, with an additional $400 per stump for grinding the area and roots.
The magistrates unanimously approved the removal of the trees, scheduled for the morning of Saturday, February 22, which will require closing the street on the East Court Square.
Before discussing the trees, magistrates received an update on the courthouse repair project from John H. Stevens of Tremco Construction Products Group, who reported that it is 99% complete.
Stevens also proposed repairing the previously repaired cracks in the front courthouse steps that are beginning to reappear.
Following some discussion, Judge-Executive Kota Young stated that they would address a change order once Stevens provides the Fiscal Court with all the project details.
