Proposed ordinance would have benefits to Howell

Why do township officials allow a few people to pressure them into stalling about passing an ordinance which would be of benefit to most residents? This is a matter of great concern to me. The blame for this problem must also be shared by reporters and their editors who print inaccurate, unverified information obtained from interviews with individuals on one side of the issue.

Howell currently has an ordinance pending which has the potential to save a great number of trees if it were passed. It would bring needed funds from builders and developers to replace the many trees they take down.

To make the ordinance equitable, homeowners would also pay a small fee for a tree removal permit. A very vocal minority of residents who seem determined to stir up trouble have managed to halt the passage of this ordinance.

Many hours of work have gone into preparing this ordinance over the past few years. It has been carefully researched and merits serious consideration and thoughtful discussion rather than angry denunciation based on misinformation.

I am tired of volunteering my time to help the township with so few results to show for it. Many hardworking volunteers are trying to beautify the landscape of our township by preserving or replacing our trees for our children’s future. Why allow a few people who either have their own agendas or too much time on their hands to ruin this opportunity for improvement of our surroundings?

Matthew McGowan

Howell

Editor’s note: The author is a member of the Howell Shade Tree Commission