Lakeland, known for its scenic beauty, has long engaged in a battle to balance conservation with growth. As the city continues to expand, the reduction in forested areas and canopy coverage has become a contentious issue at times, often sparking heated debates among residents and city officials. The topic has remained at the forefront of local discussions, with one recent event intensifying the conversation.
A recent incident on Old Brownsville Road drew significant attention and concern from the community. Large trees were recently cleared by Memphis Light, Gas, and Water (MLGW), prompting an outcry from residents who lamented the loss of the natural landscape. The removal of these trees sparked a renewed focus on the need for stricter conservation measures.
Commissioner Wesley Wright addressed the situation at a recent Board of Commissioners (BOC) meeting, where he proposed potential regulations that would require “supplemental vegetation” following construction projects in this corridor. Wright clarified that his proposal was not limited to the Old Brownsville area but intended to apply more broadly, ensuring that additional trees and shrubs would be planted after any planned or unplanned clearing.
During the BOC meeting, Michael Walker, Lakeland City Manager, mentioned that the developer for Lakeland Meadows, the property where MLGW had cleared the trees, was willing to replant vegetation after the utility lines were installed. Commissioner Jim Atkinson highlighted a key issue, noting that the original approval for the development in 2018 lacked a landscape barrier, contributing to the current situation.
Mayor Josh Roman took a different approach, emphasizing that the focus should not be on assigning blame but rather on finding solutions to move forward. He urged the city to consider how it could address the situation and prevent similar issues in the future. The mayor’s remarks underscored the importance of protecting Lakeland’s scenic corridors, a priority that is also reflected in the recently approved Comprehensive Plan.
Officials say the BOC’s commitment to conservation and the protection of Lakeland’s natural beauty remains strong, with the hope that the Comprehensive Plan will help guide the city in preserving its cherished landscapes for generations to come.
