Manalapan official ponders
cost of town’s arboretum
Recently, Township Committeeman William Scherer voiced his displeasure over spending the $300,000 needed to get the project started and maintained in front of town hall, Route 522.
Over the course of a couple of discussions of the project by the Township Com-mittee, Scherer told the other members of the governing body that he likes trees; he just thinks the money would be better spent on buying properties for open space preservation at locations "where trees are already growing."
As proposed, the township arboretum would cover the entire front grounds of the municipal complex with three areas of trees plus a pavilion.
One area of the arboretum would be set aside for residents who wish to plant a tree to honor a loved one.
The second area would be dedicated to residents who had been active in public service to the community, such as volunteer fire department and first aid squad members, as well as police officers.
The third section of the arboretum would be reserved for members of the armed forces and be placed near the existing veterans monument at the corner of Taylors Mills Road and Route 522.
Costs for the trees would be expected to range from $125 for a 4- to 5-foot tall evergreen tree to $8,500 for an 8-inch caliper shade tree. Also, engraved paving stones will be available for a cost of $150 to $200, depending on the amount of engraving done.
The arboretum was presented to residents in a township newsletter as a "special place to visit, enjoy in solitude or to hold ceremonies and small gatherings and a place to celebrate milestones in the lives of our residents and your loved ones."
Residents are promised high quality plantings with engraved plaques on the dedicated trees, perpetual care and replacement when needed.
Councilwoman Rebecca Aaronson disagreed with Scherer’s assessment and said many people have already indicated their interest in buying into the project.
"It’s a great way to honor or memorialize someone," Aaronson said.
Other committee members have also expressed their support for the arboretum.

