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Law Office et
STEPHEN D. PEARSON, Esq.
12401 South Dixie Highway Ph: (305) 26941005
Macron, Florida 33155 Fax: (305) 971-43311
February 26, 2004
City of Miami
3500 Pan American Drive
Miami, Florida
Dear City of Miami:
I am writing to you in my capacity as Chairperson of the City of Miami Committee on
Beautification and the Environment, and as President Emeritus of TRE.Emendous Miami, Inc. I have been
contacted about a proposed development of the City's old nursery property on N.W. 24 Avenue. That
property contains many valuable trees, including substantial Oak trees. Some of the Oaks are reputed to be
in excess of 100 years old.
In a city that has far too little tree canopy, it would be ideal if this property and its trees could be
preserved as a park for the benefit of all the citizens of Miami. However, if that is not possible, then any
development of the property should require the preservation of the vast majority, if not all, of the valuable
trees on this property. That would certainly include preservation of all of the old Oak trees. A tree that is
100 years old ( or anywhere close to it) is simply irreplaceable, and should be cherished as a community
treasure, particularly when it is located of public or government land. Wherever possible, the trees should
also be preserved in their present locations as moving old trees is very difficult. However, if some trees
roust be relocated, the developer should also warrant the viability of the trees, which can take years
(particularly with Oaks) to determine whether the move was successful. Bonds or other guaranties
insuring the successful relocation of any trees should be required, and mandatory mitigation should be
provided if a tree is destroyed or damaged in or by the construction, whether from relocation or otherwise.
It is my sincere hope that this property and its trees can be preserved for the benefit of the public as
a city park. If that is not feasible, then, at a minimum, any development of the property should entail
recognition of the importance of trees and mandatory preservation of old or rare species.
Thank you for your consideration, and please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or if
I can be of any service with regard to this matter.
Very truly you
Stephefi�. Pearson
SUBMITTED INTO THE
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