This cedar’s story is another tale of the City of Seattle enabling Legacy Group Capital’s bait-and-switch methods which pander to sellers and neighbors. After the sale closes, promises evaporate as profits take priority over community wellbeing.

‍

This Western Red Cedar was lovingly cared for by Barbara Brooks for 70 years. Affectionately called Grandma Brooks by her community, Barbara recalled that the towering Western Red Cedar by her home was already large when she purchased her property in the 1950s. In the years since, she cherished the tree. On hot summer days, she would carry a bucket of water to the tree to water it.

‍

When the manager of an adjacent apartment complex pressured her to remove the tree so cedar cones didn’t land on the driveway, she refused and fought to keep the tree. Into her late 80s, she swept the asphalt driveway of the neighboring apartment complex every day.

‍

According to neighbors, when Barbara passed away at 103, she requested her family only sell the property to a buyer that would preserve the tree. Neighbors say her family passed up offers that would have removed the tree. Neighbors say that when Legacy Group Capital offered to save the tree while developing the property, Barbara’s family was excited to sell.

‍

Instead, Legacy immediately filed plans to remove the cedar even though it grows at the edge of this oversized, 6,100 square foot lot. An architect who analyzed the site says Grandma Brooks cedar is “ideally situated” to be saved while the same size and number of new homes are built. See the plan here:

‍

‍

‍

Arborists have confirmed this tree is completely healthy. There is no reason this beautiful tree can’t be saved and housing can be built. Trees near homes provide benefits that are irreplaceable,  especially in areas that are growing heat islands. Seattle’s new tree ordinance allows all trees of any size to be removed for construction.

‍

How to Help

Most people in Seattle enjoy trees, and most people think they’re protected. They couldn’t be more wrong. Please help us spread awareness of what’s really happening – it’s the most powerful way to grow our community’s numbers and voice, and you can help in two specific ways:

‍

1. Print and distribute this pamphlet (color or b&w) to 5 people you know in Seattle, or place it in a local shop or venue you love.
2. Subscribe to our newsletter, and forward it to like-minded friends who love our climate and trees but don’t know our urban forest is at risk.