EASTVALE: Plan to save iconic tree axed

EASTVALE: Plan to save iconic tree axed

A plan to save what may be Eastvale's oldest tree failed this week when council members deadlocked 2-2. Mayor Ike Bootsma didn't take part in the discussion because the tree is on his front lawn.

, STAN LIM, FILE PHOTO

A proposal to save a picturesque tree on Eastvale Mayor Ike Bootsmas front lawn died this week amid traffic safety concerns.

A community effort to save the tree which some people believe is the oldest and tallest tree in the young city was organized by Bootsmas wife, Squeaker.

Because of his personal involvement, Bootsma didnt take part in the City Councils discussion or vote, leaving Councilmen Adam Rush, Bill Link, Joe Tessari and Clint Lorimore to decide whether to save the tree when its time to widen Schleisman Road from four to six lanes where it runs past the mayors home.

The council deadlocked 2-2 Wednesday, Feb. 11, on a motion to approve a plan that would curve the lanes around the tree and install a sidewalk behind and around the tree.

I think we need to stick with the original design, Rush said, referring to the Riverside County-approved road-widening plan approved in 2008, before Eastvale became a city..

That plan required the removal of the 40-foot tree to make way for the additional lanes.

Traffic is one of the biggest issues facing the city, Rush said.

Read more:
EASTVALE: Plan to save iconic tree axed