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Lancaster Tree Commission
Meeting Minutes
January 28, 2026
Attendees:
Board members present: David Burt, Ron Harvey, Mike Zawislak, Simon Hall, and Bryan Everitt.
City of Lancaster Representatives Present: Steve Gayfield, Lancaster Parks Superintendent/City Arborist; Justin
Vorhees, Tree Commission Forester; Todd Lewis, Justin’s Assistant; Larry Ailes, Lancaster City Council.
Communications:
Bryan shared Double Edge Brewery would like to do a tree related event. Bryan will follow up with more
information once it becomes available.
Steve communicated that Arbor Day will move to the downtown area this year to coincide with the annual
downtown cleanup. Their location for where they will set up will be shared soon.
Discussions:
The forester report was given by Justin. The crew did the usual maintenance and elevation work as needed
around the city. The guys have been assisting with some tree removals at Maple Grove and Forest Rose
cemeteries. There were a few tree removals at the Sixth Ave. Bridge project. A few residential trees were
removed. Cleanup and clearing was done at Cenci Park.
There were a few storm issues at Alley Park the guys have been cleaning up and they continue routine cleaning
along the trails.
Nothing to report on the sidewalk program.
Three memorial trees were planted at Hunter Park.
Justin and the guys will attend the upcoming Ohio Tree Care Conference in Newark.
Steve shared the Tree City USA applications have been forwarded and are under review. He will share further
information when it becomes available.
Steve and Justin had a virtual meeting with Ann Bonner with ODNR. They discussed grant information and the
strict requirements that have to be met to qualify. The aftercare and regular watering is vital, once the trees are
planted.
Steve provided a current expense report to all in attendance. Stump grinding will use up some of the budget
when the weather breaks.
Steve suggested that the Tree Commission may want to do a presentation to the City Council with Arbor Day
coming up in April. Larry thinks that is a good idea and the members agree.

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Mike and Bryan will be finishing tree academy in March.
The next meeting will be held at 3:00 pm on February 25, 2026. It will take place in the 1897 Conference Room
located in City Hall, 104 E. Main St. Lancaster, OH.
Submitted by:
Sandy Young, Recording Secretary