FW: Tree/Bench at Mennonite Church

[Katie Donahue]

Hi John,

I’m not sure if this email actually got to you.  Rupa has included some more details about the Tribute Tree program.  Let me know if this answers your questions!

Regards,

Katie

 

From: Rupa Venkatesh <rvenk...@fcgov.com>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 11:50 AM
To: jkef...@larmimer.org
Subject: Tree/Bench at Mennonite Church

 

Hi, Commissioner Kefalas!

 

Katie Donahue wanted me to follow up in regard to your questions surrounding the memorial bench that is located on the Mennonite Church property and the small ash tree that sits behind the bench.

 

Our City Forester did a site visit and does not recommend the tree be transplanted to a new location as the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is ramping up. The tree is too small to chemically treat to protect from EAB. Transplanting is a good option in certain situations but this tree is likely not long for life as they would need to chemically treat for the life of the tree to protect it.

 

Another option to consider is the City’s Living Tribute Tree Program as an avenue. It’s $500 per tree. We typically plant in parks but street right-of-way is also an option if the site is suitable and clear of utilities.

 

As to your question regarding the memorial bench, you may want to reach out to Annette Zacharias (ann...@familyhousingnetwork.org) with the Family Housing Network to ask if there is another church that may consider taking the bench if you are looking to relocate it. The City’s memorial bench program is currently on pause.

 

Let me know if you have any other questions!

 

Thanks in advance,

 

Rupa

 

Rupa Venkatesh

Assistant City Manager

City of Fort Collins, CO

970.221.6684 office

561.289.6176 cell