This browser does not support the Video element.
Winter Springs officials question nearly $500,000 in tree removal spending
Winter Springs city officials are scrutinizing nearly $500,000 spent on tree removal and maintenance after questions were raised about the cost during a recent commission meeting.
WINTER SPRINGS, Fla. - A local city commissioner is raising questions after discovering the city spent nearly half a million dollars on tree removal services in a matter of months.
However, the city manager responded to the concerns, saying the spending was justified.
The concerns
Local perspective:
During the June 8 commission meeting, Commissioner Caruso brought up the $427,000 bill.
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX LOCAL APP
He raised questions, asking how that was possible, who is responsible, and who authorized that to occur.
He also urged the city to pause additional tree removals.
The memo
In the newly released memo, the city manager defended the spending.
He says the city started identifying hazardous trees In 2025 after an incident that resulted in city liability.
SIGN-UP FOR FOX 35'S BREAKING NEWS, DAILY NEWS NEWSLETTERS
The memo says the city's arborist evaluated trees that posed risks to people or property, and a review found all procurement procedures were followed and that the money came from approved sources.
The city says it remains committed to preserving the city’s tree canopy while responsibly addressing conditions that pose risks to public safety and potential liability.
The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Winter Springs Commission.