We moved back to Canada to retire in the year 2000. We chose to settle in Surrey. We found a development we liked and chosen house style and were quite pleased with the area. We have great neighbours and are close to facilities we use.
There were two lots further down the street from us which were clear of construction, but unfortunately, had fallen through the cracks, and no one was coming to maintain the walnut tree on site. It had been designated a heritage tree, having been planted in 1949.
Soon, there were young people hanging around at night, climbing the tree, drinking and eating. I phoned the parks department and asked for a meeting at our home, where 19 people gathered to speak with the two officials who attended. It was agreed that maintenance would be the responsibility of the parks department. I volunteered to keep an eye on the area. Shrubs were planted which repel weeds, someone donated masses of tulips, and bushes of azaleas were put in. The grass was cut on the street side of the split rail fence encompassing the tree and we were all happy.
Early in the spring of 2013, the tree was chopped down. Then a meeting was called by parks at the local school. At that forum, we were not allowed to speak with other neighbours, only to the officials. We could only assume that it was a fait accompli then and there. We were shown the diagram and we left.
So, the tree is gone, the weeds are thick, and the rats can be expected back soon. I have sent two messages to city hall and have had no response. It is very misleading to designate Surrey as a city of parks.
Pat Savage
Surrey