As a city, we are currently not doing a very good job on two fronts: having a strong and aggressive program educating citizens and the building industry on the importance of tree preservation/protection, and, having some common sense regulations in place that will result in a better outcome for trees in the city.
Now that CACs have been reinstated with recognition from the city, we think it’s a good time to review the latest data for the Neighborhood Meetings. What we found is quite disturbing. The attendance at the meetings is getting worse, not better over time.
With this decision, Council has aimed to make the New Bern corridor more transit-friendly, but without displacing the residents of the historic neighborhoods along the corridor.
Scientific studies have shown that nothing is better for a water supply than being surrounded by naturally forested land. Not only does a leaf canopy break up falling raindrops, but leaf litter beneath the trees can hold a lot of rainwater until it soaks into the ground. When it comes to protecting water quality, we have to be both unyielding and uncompromising in our efforts. Clean water is our lifeblood with respect to both our physical and economic health.
When leadership fails to listen or blatantly disregards or dismisses their constituents, it creates a harsh disconnect between the government and the people it serves. This can and has led to feelings of frustration, anger, and ultimately a breakdown in trust between the community and its leaders.