A citywide effort to expand Toledo’s tree canopy is facing resistance in south Toledo, where some residents say they don’t want trees in front of their houses.
TOLEDO, Ohio — A citywide effort to expand Toledo’s tree canopy is facing resistance in south Toledo, where some residents say they weren’t consulted and don’t want trees planted in their yards.
Kristine Harris, who lives on Linden Green Drive, said she came home last week to find a white flag in her yard and a notice on her door.
The city plans to plant an elm tree on the tree lawn in front of her home as part of its fall planting initiative.
But Harris and her husband said they’ve removed trees in the past to prevent damage to their property, including cracked foundations and sewer backups.
“We took them down, paid thousands of dollars of our own money just to prevent things from damaging our house,” she said.
Harris said she immediately called Engage Toledo and later emailed city councilwoman Vanice Williams and the Urban Beautification Committee.
She said the response was consistent: the tree would be planted, and it would be her responsibility to maintain it.
“This is the tree you’re going to get,” Harris said. “We’re going to plant it and we need you to take care of that. Really?”
She said she’s frustrated by what she sees as a lack of communication and choice.
“I don’t like being told what to do, and I don’t have a choice,” she said. “Nobody asked.”
Harris said she’s not opposed to trees — in fact, she loves them and moved to the area in part because of its natural beauty. But she believes the city should consider residents’ input before planting.
“I just wish they would take the community’s opinion into account,” she said. “Come and canvass first. Don’t just tell us.”
She also questioned the city’s ability to maintain its existing tree inventory, citing a previous request to trim a dying tree that still hasn’t been addressed.
“They’re understaffed and they can’t get to everything,” Harris said. “Now you’re going to add 10,000 more? Do the math.”
The city’s Forestry Division said in a statement that the planting is part of its routine fall program. About 1,500 trees will be planted across Toledo this season, with 320 designated for District 2.
“Trees are one of the few investments that quietly and continually give back to everyone, regardless of income or circumstance,” the statement from the city reads. “They are vital infrastructure that helps keep our neighborhoods cooler, cleaner, and healthier.”
Harris said she understands the environmental benefits but believes the city is overlooking practical concerns, especially for older residents who may struggle with leaf cleanup and maintenance.
“There’s a lot of elderly people here who now have flags in their yards,” she said. “They’re going to have to rake leaves and take care of these trees. Some are on fixed incomes. It’s not fair.”
She also worries about the long-term impact on infrastructure, including cracked sidewalks and sewer lines.
“We take really good care of our lawn. Our house is beautiful. That’s beautification in itself,” Harris said. “You don’t have to plant a tree.”