Think globally, act locally and don't rush decisions

Wasn't it Patrick Geddes, the 1915 Scottish planner and conservationist, who promoted a "think globally, act locally" mentality? Thinking of climate change, it disheartened me when a Sandpoint city councilor dismissed my concern about removing a large healthy maple tree off Pine for yet another traffic pattern change, saying, "There is another tree 15 feet away."

What happens when there is no longer another tree 15 feet away? This tree is part of Pine Street's canopy between Fifth and Third avenues, helping to cool the city street, lessen air and noise pollution from the traffic, and offer some privacy and enjoyment for those Pine Street residents, cafe visitors, pedestrians, etc. These canopies help reduce flooding and stormwater runoff and increase biodiversity, and this type of beautiful tree-lined street is iconic in Sandpoint.

I understand that growth is inevitable, but it still alarms me to witness our forested lots transformed into concrete and giant buildings and realize the environmental changes this brings to Sandpoint. I think I read in our Comprehensive Plan, Chapter 3, Goal 3, Urban Forest, about the importance of maintaining our tree canopy. I am neither for nor against this stoplight change, but let's get it right and don't rush it. We travel on failing streets and crumbling sidewalks that need prioritizing. I am happy to finally see the rerouting of trucks from U.S. 95; now, how do we lessen the regular traffic through and in town? Can't we make Sandpoint a true "walking town" with accommodations for those with mobility issues?

PAM DUQUETTE

Sandpoint