Florida City Residents Have Mixed Feelings on Newly Planted Trees

The city of Naples, Fla., is spending tens of thousands of dollars on new trees, while at the same time desperately looking for ways to cut its budget.

At a cost of $36,000, more than 100 freshly planted oak trees now line several downtown Naples streets.

"In these trying economic times, it’s a totally unnecessary expense and a frivolous use of taxpayer money," City Councilman Bill Willkomm told NBC2.

Nearby, residents seem split on their new neighbors.

"It’s a lot of money to be spent on those trees. And they have to be maintained once they are planted," Dirk Wipperman said.

"The horticulture and planting of trees and plants have made this a very special town. This is what makes Naples, Naples," Bernie Portnoy said.

As part of the project, workers are also taking out around 30 queen palms.  City staff members say it’s a precaution because the trees could be susceptible to a fungus.

When asked why it’s a good use of taxpayer money, city parks superintendent Joe Boscaglia said "Well, this project is a result of taxpayer requests."

Boscaglia tells NBC2 by not removing a threatened tree, a disease could spread to every other tree in the city.

"We’re trying to be proactive. Get to the trees prior to them spreading," Boscaglia said.

But Willkomm argues the neighborhood is already loaded with landscaping.

"The only reason why city council or city staff would approve something like this is because it’s not their money," Willkomm said.

Others stand by the fresh foliage.

"I think it was a smart move on the part of the city," Portnoy said.