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for an application for painting of masonry. President O'Malley requested that the <br /> recommendations be shared with the whole of Council. <br /> Councilmember Bullock apologized for his behavior and his word choice onsite during the <br /> removal of 6 trees from downtown the previous week. He apologized to the staff and the <br /> forestry director. He asked that members of the public cease criticism of the public employees <br /> who performed the job. He expressed disagreement with the administration on the policy <br /> behind tree removal. <br /> President O'Malley spoke to the need to revisit the policy regarding tree removal.He expressed <br /> appreciation for Councilmember Bullock taking ownership and apologizing for the matter. He <br /> also expressed appreciation for Lakewood's city employees. <br /> Director Ducu offered an explanation behind why the trees were removed. He noted that the <br /> city has had problems with trip hazards in that area dating back to 2011 and 2016 when the <br /> sidewalks were ground several times. The Building department indicated that the trees were <br /> negatively affecting nearby buildings. <br /> Mike Satink of Lakewood's local AFSCME union and the Public Works Department disagreed <br /> with Councilmember Bullock's explanation of the incident. He regretted that his employees <br /> were attacked on social media. He thanked Mr. Bullock for acknowledging his actions but <br /> stated that he owes the employees a personal apology. <br /> Councilmember Bullock replied that he is willing to speak directly with the employees. He <br /> added that he does not agree with the factuality of the story Mr. Satink received. He stated that <br /> in his social media remarks, he said that the employees were doing the right thing. <br /> President O'Malley stated that in Mr. Bullock's initial comments that he included photos of <br /> the workers and noted that they did not listen to him when he told them to stop their work on <br /> the trees. Mr. Bullock stated his intent to get the matter resolved on the spot. He added that his <br /> intent was to capture the trees coming down. <br /> Councilmember Kepple stated that the conversation should be focused on how to move <br /> forward with better policy. She stated her intent to rework and introduce ways to improve <br /> procedures and public noticing in regard to tree removal. <br /> Mr. Satink asked that members make phone calls to the Mayor or Director Ducu in lieu of <br /> going immediately to social media. <br /> In reference to a letter that was received by all members of Council from AFSCME Local 1043 <br /> regarding the incident,President O'Malley noted that the city's charter does not grant Council <br /> the ability to discipline its own members. Mr. Satink stated he has no intent as President to <br /> seek discipline of Councilmember Bullock. <br /> Director Ducu spoke about policy regarding tree removal. The city arborist evaluates the tree <br /> in question and if it poses any danger to property or persons, it is to be removed. <br />