I’m an arborist, which means I make my living caring for trees. I love them: beautiful, patient, ancient living things.
Three years ago, the city council of Redondo Beach, California ordered my 30-year-old pepper tree, Clyde, to be cut down because his roots had begun lifting the sidewalk in front of my house. Then you made me pay for the sidewalk repairs and for the tree removal.
I loved Clyde. I had planted him knowing he would likely live far beyond me. I drained his soil, supported him when he was young, and watched him grow into a strong, healthy tree.
Just as Clyde was spreading his roots and building a proper canopy, the city took him from me.
But Clyde will be avenged.
Mayor Steve Aspel. You killed my child. For this, you will pay.
