MCCOLL — A longtime safety concern in the McColl community, an overgrown — but beloved — tree recently came down in Geddie Park. Due to the act of nature, McColl Mayor Robert Outlaw made the decision to temporarily close Geddie Park to residents and visitors while crews worked to remove the tree debris.
“The park should be back open tomorrow,” said the mayor Tuesday morning. “We are moving the last of the logs today.”
When the tree fell, many residents leaped into action to help remove the tree, saving the town quite a few dollars according to Mayor Outlaw.
He said the tree was an old one in the area and in the past, when it was evaluated by surveyors it was deemed necessary to come down under a former mayor, but residents did not want to lose a favored tree. Outlaw said necessity now offered opportunity and several individuals stepped up to assist in removing the unsafe tree from the park.
“It was a blessing to see our community coming together for the better,” Outlaw said.
He thanked the Town of McColl Street Department, Clayton Locklear, and Bill Pate for all the hard work they put into cleaning up the massive tree limb.
Outlaw said, “This isn’t a quick or easy job. It takes time, teamwork, and a whole lot of sweat. These guys have been out there early, working in the heat to safely remove the debris and get the park one step closer to reopening. With temperatures climbing fast each morning, it’s no small task.”
Pointing out clean up work is ongoing, Outlaw said it is important to him to recognize the dedication and effort of those that pour their heart into the McColl community.
He said, “Sometimes it’s easy to overlook the people behind the scenes who keep our town running, and today they deserve a little extra appreciation.”