City removes tree on Market Street encampment site

A Korean Mountain Ash tree located on Mayor Murray’s preferred transitional encampment site (2826 NW Market St.) was removed by the city yesterday.

It was previously reported by KIRO 7 that the preferred city-owned property was in need of remediation, and it appears the first steps to do that have been taken.

Additionally, it will also be necessary to remove the property of chemicals like lead and asbestos before residents may move onto it. The property owner Seattle City Light has told KIRO 7 news it will costs more than $145,000 for this process.

Meanwhile, a petition asking for public hearings has just surpassed 900 signatures as of July 17. Many of the signatures represent frustrated Ballard residents who feel they have been left out of the decision-making process.

“As a resident who lives directly behind/next to this site, I want to know what the city is doing without engaging the community,” says Jacqueline Thiebe.

Speaking for the Ballard Chamber of Commerce, Mike Stewart comments on the tree removal: “This is opposite of transparent, responsive and representative government.”