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2 <br /> <br />________________________________________________________________________ <br />6347 Minnewashta Woods Dr., Excelsior MN 55331• 763-717-9366 • heritageshadetree.com <br /> <br />During my site visit on August 7, 2025, I observed that the mature trees are healthy and <br />thriving. There is no sign of branch dieback, a common sign of root damage and <br />declining condition. The foliage on all four trees is healthy, and the trees appear to be <br />growing vigorously. I spoke to an arborist who works for the landscape contractor that <br />built the wall, and he stated that the oaks were exhibiting signs of stress prior to <br />construction of the retaining wall. <br /> <br />At this point, disassembling the retaining wall to comply with standard setback <br />requirements would require excavation and grading within the trees' critical root zone. <br />This would remove the roots that have colonized the new soil within the terraces and <br />incur the risk of dieback and decline for these mature specimens. <br /> <br />In my professional opinion, the proposed variance reflects a responsible and <br />environmentally sound approach to development. The applicant has shown a commitment <br />to maintaining healthy, mature trees, consistent with arboricultural best practices and the <br />city’s broader goals for sustainable land use and preservation of green infrastructure. I <br />respectfully support approval of this variance in recognition of the ecological value and <br />protective function this retaining wall provides. I am available if additional information <br />or clarification is needed. <br /> <br />Sincerely, <br /> <br />Don Mueller <br />Partner/Consulting Arborist <br />Heritage Shade Tree Consultants <br />ISA Certified Arborist MN-4640A, TRAQ, TPAQ <br />don@heritageshadetree.com <br />651.269.3701 <br />142