A question of shade and secrecy

In early July, when I read that the Cathlamet town council planned to cut down Strong Park’s large, prominent fir tree, located on museum property, I decided to get involved. Hoping to make a difference, I attended every council meeting, interested in the town’s plans and seeking discussion and alternatives. But instead of collaboration, like many others, I faced resistance. They assured me they’d tried “everything to save the tree,” but claimed it was “too expensive” to simply go around it.

On October 21, the council held a closed-door executive session, deciding to remove the tree without public input or notifying the property owner—the museum’s historical society, which opposes tree removal. The council then arranged for swift action, hoping to avoid objections. It was only through sheer luck that the tree remains; an unexpected delay and a chance conversation revealed the plan. Without this, the tree would already be gone, and our questions would have come too late.

The tree is not yet saved; the historical society's attorney has contacted the town's attorney.

The urgency is puzzling. No repairs have been made to the pathway since its installation in 1991, and work on a new sidewalk isn’t planned until next year. So why the secrecy and rush? Such hasty, closed-door decisions suggest the council either doubts its authority or fears community response.

This issue isn’t just about a tree—it’s about process and transparency. A responsible coun cil would work thoughtfully to balance accessibility needs and heritage preservation. Instead, the council appears determined to sideline community voices and property rights.

Imagine a collaborative council, one that listens to community concerns, values input, and finds funding solutions that protect our heritage. In that vision, we wouldn’t fear the loss of irreplaceable trees or worry about secretive actions. We’d see a council that respects property rights and carefully considers the long-term impacts of its decisions.

Is this how the council intends to serve our community, or can we expect better?

Megan Blackburn Friend

Wahkiakum resident