The Root of the Problem

The Root of the Problem

I was at a public hearing the other night when the issue of damage from street trees was addressed by the City Council.  There was a brief discussion on the value of these street trees since, in a mature condition, their roots were beginning to damage sidewalks and sprinkler systems.  I became saddened as I listened.  In my opinion, the whole premise of the discussion was wrong.

This issue should not be whether or not the trees are worth the damage that they cause.  The issue should be whether we as a society are doing enough to make sure our communities are as aesthetically pleasing as possible.  Area repairs due to the maturation of a neighborhood are small prices to pay to make a community desirable.  In my opinion, you can never have too much community detail.  Let me put it in perspective.  If you are going out for a fancy night on the town, you want to make sure you look your best, right?  You want to celebrate and you want everyone who sees you to know that you look incredible.  You may need to spend extra money on your appearance and clothing, but isn’t it worth it?  Don’t you feel better about yourself?  Your community is no different.  Don’t you want it to look its best when you come home and your friends come to visit?  If you need to spend a little bit extra to make sure it is always looking just right, isn’t it worth it?

I know not everyone can afford home and community repairs.  However, isn’t the better question not if, but how can you not afford to spend the money?  Attractive communities tend to have greater community spirit.  Greater community spirit tends to lead to an enhanced lifestyle, where people care more about their community and take initiatives to meet and involve neighbors.   In general, it makes the area a better, safer place to live.  These areas also tend to have higher property values.  You may be spending more than you would like on maintenance, but your increased home value will more than offset that added expense.

So, the next time you see a sidewalk in need of repair due to the maturation of street trees, take a look around.  Don’t ask if the trees were worth it.  Ask yourself what your community would look like without them.

Until next time…

 

Keep kicking the dirt!

Jeff Gersh is President of Gersh Consulting Services, a real estate advisory firm, headquartered in Orlando, FL.  He may be reached at jsgersh@gmail.com or 407-468-9328