ABC7news Coverage:

 Menlo Park residents worried neighbor’s ADU Plans near massive redwood trees could pose safety risk

I'm a resident of Menlo Park, burdened with the fear that my neighbor's plan to sever 50% of the roots of my colossal heritage redwood trees, could, at any moment, lead to a catastrophic disaster. These majestic 100 year old trees which stand as tall as 145 feet (with trunks as wide as 6 feet), are not just a symbol of our city's beauty but also would reach to at least 10 houses in their immediate vicinity, should they fall. A misstep, such as severing their root systems for an ADU to be build just 5 feet from their trunks, could result in the trees falling over, blocking Pope Street and the local alleyway, pulling down power lines, destroying homes and lives and endangering public safety.

The law in California is clear - public safety is paramount and must be upheld in permitting decisions, irrespective of the size of the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). Yet, the city of Menlo Park seems to believe it bears no responsibility if the ADU is less than 800 sq.ft. This careless outlook on public safety could potentially put numerous lives and properties at risk, including mine.

Research from the National Safety Council indicates that falling trees are a significant public safety risk, leading to several fatalities and injuries each year. As per the existing law and the proven potential risks, the city of Menlo Park must consider the severe implications of allowing the alteration of these massive trees for smaller ADUs. We cannot, should not trade off human safety for urban development.

I invite the citizens, the local government, and everyone who values human life and public safety to join in this collective appeal. Stand with me to ensure our city enforces California's public safety regulations in full, in all cases, with no exceptions for the size of the ADU's. It is not a question of if a disaster might occur, but when, if our concerns are ignored. Let's come together to protect our homes, our city, and our lives. Please sign this petition.